The Industrialisation Secretary, Professor Erastus Gatebe, has said Kenya is aligning its accreditation systems with international best practices to support national development and enhance confidence in the quality of products and services across key sectors.
Speaking in Nakuru during a public participation forum on the Kenya Accreditation Service (Amendment) Bill 2025, Prof. Gatebe described accreditation as a critical pillar of trust, noting that it ensures compliance with strict standards of quality, health, and safety.
He stated that the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry will support the Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) in reviewing the KENAS Act of 2019 to strengthen the institution and make it more responsive to emerging technological, economic, and societal needs.
According to Prof. Gatebe, accreditation plays a vital role in advancing sustainability goals by encouraging environmentally responsible practices and supporting initiatives aimed at conserving natural resources.
ALSO READ: NIGERIA NCS ACCELERATES TRADE REFORMS WITH HIGH-LEVEL MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
The proposed amendment bill is currently undergoing public participation alongside two draft regulations. These include the Accreditation (General) Regulations 2025, which set out procedures for accreditation, exemptions, and the use of accreditation marks, as well as the Accreditation (Fees) Regulations 2025, which propose a review of accreditation fees that have remained unchanged for the past 17 years.
Prof. Gatebe explained that the proposed fee review is intended to reflect current economic realities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of accreditation services in Kenya.
He further disclosed that the Ministry is working closely with KENAS and other stakeholders in the development of the Kenya Quality Policy, aimed at strengthening the country’s quality infrastructure.
“As we look to the future, it is incumbent upon us to harness the full potential of accreditation to address the complex challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” he said.
He added that through collaboration and partnership between government, industry stakeholders, and accreditation bodies, Kenya can build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for all its citizens.
