The government has underscored the critical role of metrology and standards in driving local entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and exports.
Speaking during the commemoration of the World Metrology Day held by the Kenya Bureau of Statistics Tuesday in Nairobi, the Principal Secretary for Industry at the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, Dr. Juma Mukhwana stressed on the need to strengthen national systems of measurement and ensure that accurate, reliable data is accessible to all Kenyans.
PS Mukhwana emphasized the universal impact of metrology, noting that accurate measurements underpin everything from medicine and trade to energy and public safety while stressing the government’s commitment to strengthening metrology infrastructure through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and its Time and Frequency Laboratory, which ensures national timekeeping is synchronized with global standards.
“We have come a long way from reading shadows in the sun to synchronizing time across continents,” he said. “But today, our measurement of time is far more precise and coordinated to the millisecond by atomic clocks, satellites, and global standards in the Time and Frequency Lab at KEBS.”
He noted the revolution reflects something deeper like the fundamental role that accurate, reliable measurements play in every aspect of modern life. “That is why we are gathered here today to mark World Metrology Day, under the powerful theme: “Measurements for All Times, for All People.”
The event that was held at The Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi, brought together industry leaders, government officials, scientists, and development partners under the global theme: “Measurements for All Times, for All People.”
He lauded KEBS for being at the forefront of developing national measurement standards, offering calibration services, and maintaining traceability to international systems.
“These efforts are essential to protecting consumers, supporting innovation, and enabling Kenyan goods and services to compete on the global stage.” The PS noted.
On her part, KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari stressed that accurate measurements are central to enabling global trade, protecting consumers, and supporting Kenya’s aspirations.
She underscored the importance of having accurate measurements in the health sector, as well as in the food sector.
“Today, we are recognizing. The importance of measurement, accurate measurements in everyday life, in whatever we do. From the time we wake up in the morning to whatever we do during the day and especially in terms of trades, measurement is very important, it is very important to have accurate measurements for trade.” She said.
Adding that: “From the gram of sugar in your morning tea to the dosage in a child’s medication, our entire way of life depends on one simple truth: that the measurements we rely on are correct.”
Ngari highlighted KEBS’s ongoing efforts to modernize the National Metrology Institute (NMI), enhance calibration laboratories, and achieve international recognition of Kenya’s Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) noting that these steps will boost Kenya’s competitiveness within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“At KEBS, we have continued to modernize our National Metrology Institute (NMI), enhance our calibration laboratories, and pursue international recognition of our calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs). These efforts strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional hub for quality infrastructure and promote economic integration across East Africa and beyond.” She noted.
Chairman of the National Standards Council Dr. Chris Wamalwa echoed the sentiment, noting, “Whether it’s a one-kilo bag of flour or a vial of medicine, precise and transparent measurement is what builds confidence in Kenyan goods and services both locally and internationally.”
World Metrology Day is a reminder that behind every trade, diagnosis, or recipe lies a system of trust built on measurement. As Kenya works to industrialize, improve healthcare, and boost exports, investing in metrology is investing in national progress.
