Good governance is hinged on quality standards, Kebs says

Quality standards play a pivotal role in promoting good governance and enhancing service delivery in Kenya's public sector, the Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has said.

 Speaking on Monday in Nairobi when the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) celebrated World Standards Day, Mr Koskei said by establishing clear benchmarks for performance, efficiency, and accountability, standards ensure government services are delivered consistently, transparently, and with integrity, helping streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and foster a culture of continuous improvement across public institutions.

 “At the heart of public service and governance lies one word- Trust. Good governance is not measured by the mere provision of services, but by the quality, reliability, and integrity of those services. Standards are the custodians of this trust,” he said.

 World Standards Day is an annual event that celebrates the collaborative efforts of thousands of experts worldwide who develop voluntary technical agreements that are published as International Standards.

 This year’s World Standards Day theme, “Shared Vision for a Better World: Spotlight on SDG 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure in the age of AI”, focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. International Standards are the backbone of global progress.

They ensure interoperability, security, and sustainability, fostering global collaboration to accelerate innovation through AI.

 Standards have been a key pillar in KEBS' mandate to protect Kenyan consumers, ensuring that the goods and services they use are reliable and safe.

By working in collaboration with industry, government, and consumer groups, KEBS has successfully implemented standards that safeguard sustainable industrial growth, and cutting-edge innovation – powered by artificial intelligence that drive Kenya’s economic transformation, today and for future generations.

 The celebrations also coincided with KEBS' 50th anniversary, marking five decades of the National Standards Body being at the forefront of Kenya’s development, safeguarding consumer safety, improving product quality, and boosting the country's competitiveness in international markets.

 Established in 1974 under the Standards Act, Cap 496 of the Laws of Kenya, KEBS is mandated to ensure the quality and safety of products and services in Kenya, while also promoting industrial development and international trade.

Over the five decades of its existence, the Standards body has been at the forefront of developing of a robust regulatory framework that ensures that products and services meet the highest levels of quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.

 Additionally, it has played a critical role in elevating Kenya's position in global trade by ensuring that Kenyan products meet international standards, KEBS has helped local businesses gain a competitive edge in global markets, driving economic growth, and contributing to the nation’s development. From agricultural products to manufactured goods, standards have ensured that Kenya can compete favorably on the international stage, building trust in the “Made in Kenya” label.