KEBS Leads Africa’s Push for Global Standards at IEC AFRC 10th Anniversary
Esther Ngari, Managing Director of the Kenya Bureau of Standards, addresses delegates during the IEC AFRC 10th Anniversary celebrations held at KICC in Nairobi.
By Aoma Keziah ,
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) today hosted the 10th anniversary celebration of the International Electrotechnical Commission Africa Regional Centre (IEC AFRC) in Nairobi, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across the continent.
The event, which opened on Tuesday at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, focused on Africa’s growing role in global standardization, clean energy transition, and the digital transformation of industries.
Esther Ngari, the Managing Director of KEBS, said Kenya remains committed to driving innovation through standards that strengthen trust, enhance safety, and promote trade.
“We are at the forefront of the clean energy transition, and we are embracing digital technologies that redefine industries. We are strengthening resilient supply chains for a rapidly evolving world,” she stated.
Ngari emphasized that International Standards and Conformity Assessment are not just technical procedures, but essential tools that underpin economic opportunity and global competitiveness.
“They are the foundation of trust in our markets. They ensure the safety and reliability of our technologies. And importantly, they open doors to innovation, trade, and economic opportunity,” she noted.
The three-day conference will feature panel discussions, technical sessions, and networking forums aimed at strengthening collaboration across Africa’s electrotechnical community. Delegates are expected to outline strategies for innovation, market access, and climate-resilient growth.
Chris Wamalwa, Chairman National Standards Council, highlighted that here in Kenya, and across Africa, we are witnessing rapid changes in energy, manufacturing, and digital innovation.
“The question before us is, how do we ensure that this transformation is guided by quality, safety, and sustainability? The answer lies in standards and in the cooperation that brings those standards to life. The National Standards Council is proud to work closely with KEBS, IEC, AFSEC, and other partners to advance this mission. Together, we are laying the foundation for a more integrated and resilient continent,” he underscored.
According to Ngari, the harmonization of standards across Africa is a key enabler of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), helping goods, services, and ideas move more freely and confidently across borders.
She added that the use of standards in energy and infrastructure projects would help expand electricity access to millions of citizens who remain underserved, ensuring no community is left behind in Africa’s transformation journey.
The KEBS MD further commended the role of regional and international partners, including the IEC, AFSEC, PAQI institutions, national standards bodies, academia, and industry players in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for the continent.
“Kenya is immensely proud to serve as your host for this historic gathering. I encourage everyone to take full advantage of this platform to share experiences, strengthen networks, and explore innovative pathways that will power Africa’s sustainable transformation,” she concluded.
The IEC AFRC, established a decade ago, continues to play a central role in promoting Africa’s participation in international standardization and ensuring the continent’s voice is heard in shaping the technologies of the future.
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The Mt Kenya Times 
