Nairobi — Small and medium-sized enterprises (MSEs) have been asked to adopt quality standard measures by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to be competitive on the global stage.
State Department of Industrialization Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana acknowledged the government's commitment to supporting SMEs.
"Fostering quality in our SMEs is pivotal for their growth and ability to compete internationally. Our vision is to see 'Made in Kenya' synonymous with world-class quality, positioning our products and services as globally sought-after for their excellence," he stated.
Mukhwana added that quality is integral to transforming Kenya into a quality-driven regional powerhouse, benefiting not just the small business sector but also larger industries.
"This comprehensive focus on quality elevates our national standards, ensuring that Kenyan businesses are well-positioned to compete on a global stage," Mukhwana said.
Esther Ngari, Managing Director at KEBS, emphasized the importance of continuous quality improvement beyond initial certification while stating that the approach is fundamental for ensuring safety, reliability, and optimal performance of products and services for business growth.
"Obtaining our quality mark should be viewed not as a final achievement, but as a starting point in a business's ongoing commitment to quality. Quality directly impacts consumer trust and overall business success," Ngari stated.
Peter Munyiri, Chairman of the National Standards Council, said that the introduction of the KEB's Medium Small Enterprise Policy is a strategic move to bolster vital businesses.
This was said during this year's World Quality Day.