KENAS at the All-Things Lab and Testing (ATLT) Expo 2024: Leading the Charge in Facilitating Intra-Africa Trade through Competent Testing Solutions

Mutetei Mutisya

— 5 min read
KENAS at the All-Things Lab and Testing (ATLT) Expo 2024: Leading the Charge in Facilitating Intra-Africa Trade through Competent Testing Solutions

The All-Things Lab and Testing (ATLT) Expo 2024, held at Sarit Centre, Nairobi, marked a significant milestone for stakeholders in the laboratory and testing sector. As Africa's premier gathering of manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers of laboratory consumables, equipment, and testing services, the event centered on the theme, "Facilitating Intra-Africa Trade through Competent Testing Solutions." KENAS was honored to partner with the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry, TradeMark East Africa, and other key players. The event organizers were Foventa. The event's success was underscored by the presence of Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, as the Chief Guest.

KENAS CEO, PS Dr. Juma Mukhwana, and Prof. Ratemo Michieka visiting Tharaka University’s Testing Laboratory booth during the Expo

PS Dr. Juma Mukhwana’s Call to Action: Upgrading Laboratory Capabilities to Boost Trade

In his keynote address, Dr. Juma Mukhwana underscored the critical role of accredited laboratories in enhancing Kenya's trade potential. He highlighted that upgrading the country's lab testing capabilities is vital for supporting industries across sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food production.

"By improving the capabilities of our laboratories and testing facilities, we will create systems that support industries across all sectors, from agriculture and food production to manufacturing and pharmaceuticals," said Dr. Mukhwana. He emphasized that as Kenya and the broader African region continue to expand their reach into international markets, accredited laboratories will be essential to ensuring that products meet international quality standards.

Dr. Mukhwana urged Kenyan businesses to seek accreditation from KENAS, pointing out that while accreditation is not mandatory, it is crucial for global recognition and trust in the quality of products and services. He encouraged all laboratories to achieve accreditation to help Kenya compete more effectively in global markets.

Prof. Ratemo Michieka's Vision for Africa’s Testing Sector

Prof. Ratemo Michieka, Chairperson of the ATLT Secretariat, also underscored the importance of the continent's testing capabilities. He called for a serious dialogue to improve the consistency of testing products and services in Africa. "We have not taken this sector seriously, yet everything in life is about testing and measurements to arrive at standards that can be applicable anywhere in the world for even informed decision-making," he said. Prof. Michieka further stressed that the expo aims to bridge gaps in the sector, making it the first of its kind on the continent.

KENAS CEO on the Role of Accreditation in Intra-Africa Trade

During the event, the KENAS CEO, Dr. Walter Ongeti highlighted the organization's commitment to enhancing the quality of goods and services across Africa through its robust accreditation framework. He noted, "Accreditation is the backbone of trust in trade. In the context of intra-Africa trade, accreditation ensures that products moving across borders comply with international standards, thereby reducing the risk of non-tariff barriers that often hinder African products from competing in the global marketplace."

He emphasized that KENAS, as an ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) member, IAF Multilateral Arrangement (MLA) member, and AFRAC MRA signatory, ensures that conformity assessment results from its accredited bodies are recognized internationally. This global recognition facilitates the acceptance of tested products across borders without the need for re-testing or re-certification, easing entry into global markets.

The CEO also highlighted specific sectors such as agriculture, where sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures are vital for exporting food products, and other critical industries where accredited testing is non-negotiable for ensuring safety, reliability, and quality. These include,

·       Agriculture: Ensuring sanitary and phytosanitary measures are in place for exporting food products.

·       Medical: Guaranteeing the safety and reliability of diagnostic and healthcare services.

·       Transport: Supporting the quality and safety of vehicle parts and infrastructure.

·       Construction: Verifying the compliance of building materials and structural components.

·       Pharmaceuticals: Confirming the efficacy and safety of drugs and medical products.

·       ICT: Testing and certifying technology solutions to meet global standards.

KENAS CEO Dr Walter Ongeti giving a speech during the opening of the Expo

Expert Discussions and Panel Sessions

KENAS played a significant role in the dialogue sessions at the event:

  • Ms. Felista Nyakoe, KENAS Testing Laboratories Manager, was a key discussant during Session One, "Testing and Trade," where she elaborated on the regional accreditation framework for testing and calibration laboratories.
  • Ms. Doris Mueni, KENAS Medical Laboratories Manager, participated in a panel on streamlining ethical procedures for human and animal testing.
  • Mr. Stanslaus Masinza KENAS Calibration Laboratories Manager contributed to a session on "Future Proof Labs," discussing the fundamentals of tomorrow's cutting-edge innovations.
The Manager of Medical Laboratories Ms Doris Mueni (in the middle) taking part in the All Things Lab and Testing panel discussions

Showcasing KENAS Accreditation and Training Services

KENAS also showcased its accreditation and training services at the event, interacting with attendees who were keen to understand the difference between accreditation and certification. The KENAS booth provided detailed information on their services, which include the accreditation of medical, testing, and calibration laboratories, certification bodies, inspection bodies, validation/verification bodies, and proficiency testing laboratories.

Attendees learned about the importance of accreditation in Kenya’s quality infrastructure and the latest schemes developed in the 2023/2024 Financial Year, such as the accreditation of diagnostic imaging facilities and biobanks. KENAS also highlighted the upcoming development of new testing laboratory schemes for the 2024/2025 Financial Year, including forensic laboratories, anti-doping laboratories and Global Gap.

A visitor at the KENAS booth inquiring about our services

Conclusion

KENAS’s participation in the ATLT Expo 2024 underscored its commitment to driving quality and excellence in Africa’s testing and laboratory sector. Through its comprehensive accreditation services and strategic partnerships, KENAS is at the forefront of enabling intra-Africa trade, ensuring that products and services meet both local and international standards.

As Africa continues to expand its market integration, KENAS remains dedicated to providing the framework that supports industries across sectors, promoting trust and facilitating trade across borders. Accredited laboratories are crucial in supporting the continent’s economic growth by ensuring that African products meet the highest quality standards recognized globally.

For laboratories seeking to enhance their capabilities and align with international standards, KENAS is ready to support their journey toward achieving accreditation excellence.

Read more