KEBS nets, destroys substandard goods worth over Ksh 5M

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has netted and destroyed substandard goods valued at over Ksh 5 million in Kisumu.

KEBS on Tuesday destroyed the substandard goods at the KEMRI incinerator in Kisumu.

These, substandard products, range from medical appliances such as syringes, electrical appliances, electronic household appliances and equipment, motor-cycle inner tubes, alcoholic drinks, cosmetics among others.

Last year KEBS destroyed goods valued at Ksh. 57.7 million.

KEBS, Regional Manager, Lake Region Mr. Joe Ombwayo who witnessed destruction of the substandard goods, said this exercise should serve as a warning to traders and manufacturers of such products.

Ombwayo, also called on Kenyans to be vigilante when purchasing goods and always check on KEBS marks of quality.

The regional manager further stressed that the bureau’s core mandate is to avail standards that are used to facilitate trade, protect consumers from harmful and poor quality goods and finally to protect the environment.

He urged all stakeholders to cooperate with KEBS officers whenever they visit their outlets.

During the same function, KEBS called on Kenyans to make use of the SMS code service of 20023 to check if a product has been certified.

The Regional Manager further said KEBS will from July 1^st not allow imported goods to be sold to Kenyans if they do not have the secured Import Standardisation Mark (ISM).

He urged traders to ensure all their goods have the secured ISM by June 30th.