KENAS Participates in the 2nd China Certification and Accreditation Conference to Mark World Accreditation Day 2025

Theme: “Conformity Assessment – Synergistic Development with Supply Chain”

As part of the global celebrations to mark World Accreditation Day 2025, the Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) participated in the 2nd China Certification and Accreditation Conference, held in Shanghai, China, under the theme “Conformity Assessment – Synergistic Development with Supply Chain.” The conference brought together over 200 delegates from across the globe, offering a robust platform for thought leadership, international cooperation, and strategic dialogue on the role of conformity assessment in strengthening global supply chains.

The event was officially opened by Mr. Luo Wen, Minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), who emphasized the central role that conformity assessment services—encompassing testing, inspection, and certification—play in building efficient national systems. He noted that these services are instrumental in improving operational systems and advancing mutual recognition, thereby expanding market access and facilitating cross-border trade.

Also delivering key remarks was Mr. Gonchong, Deputy Secretary of the Chinese People's Congress Shanghai Municipal Committee and Mayor of Shanghai, who shared insights into the pilot initiatives on green certification being undertaken in Shanghai—an inspiring example of integrating sustainability into conformity assessment frameworks.

The conference featured powerful contributions from global leaders in accreditation and quality infrastructure including:

• Mr. Emmanuele Riva, Chair of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF)
• Prof. Lin Zhongqiu, Former President, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
• Mrs. Siddhika Senaratne, Director General, Sri Lanka Standards Institute
• Mr. Steven Margis, Vice President of the International Electrotechnical Commission
• Mrs. Jennifer Evans, Chair, Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC)
• Dr. Celestine Okanya, Director General, NiNAS and Chair of the Africa Accreditation Cooperation (AFRAC)

The conference underscored the pivotal role of accredited conformity assessment services in empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to thrive. Speakers discussed how the strategic implementation of quality systems helps SMEs access new markets, improve competitiveness, and ensure consistent delivery of products and services that meet consumer needs. This is especially crucial in an era marked by technological disruption, where quality assurance mechanisms must evolve to keep pace.

For KENAS, the participation in this global forum reaffirms its commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic development through internationally recognized accreditation services. KENAS continues to work closely with local stakeholders to develop schemes that promote quality, sustainability, and innovation—key drivers for Kenya’s Vision 2030 and its positioning in continental and global trade