The Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Mayang, has emphasised the importance of modernising the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards to ensure consumer safety and bolster trade and investment opportunities.
Minister Atong outlined her ministry’s vision to upgrade the Bureau of Standards with permanent facilities and fully functional national laboratories that comply with international standards.
During an official visit to the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards, Minister Atong highlighted the crucial role of these efforts in safeguarding citizens and fostering trust among stakeholders.
She emphasised that the modernisation plan serves as the cornerstone of South Sudan’s national quality agenda and reiterated the need for widespread enhancements across the country.
In a statement, Minister Atong stated, “Our shared objective should focus on advancing the Bureau of Standards nationwide, establishing a state-of-the-art headquarters, and operating national laboratories that meet global standards.”
She also stressed the importance of strengthening regulatory oversight to prevent monopolies and ensure compliance, particularly in the initial stages of implementation.
At the same event, Gloria Nyoka, the Executive Director of the National Bureau of Standards, acknowledged internal challenges within the institution, including role overlaps among government entities.
Nyoka appealed for the approval of the national quality policy, which has already received endorsement from the economic cluster.
The Undersecretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Yel Luol Koor, urged for the harmonisation of standards with regional partners to stimulate trade and economic integration, particularly with the East African Community.
The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards has recently garnered attention for intercepting numerous trucks transporting goods deemed unsafe for consumption, predominantly at the Nimule border.
