The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has issued a warning to traders to remain vigilant against imposters posing as their inspectors, claiming to be on the lookout for substandard or expired goods.
KEBS Meru Head, John King’ori, said the bureau had received numerous complaints from traders, particularly in the region, about individuals harassing business owners and demanding bribes over alleged presence of substandard or expired products in their premises.
Speaking on Saturday at the bureau’s stand during the ongoing Embu ASK Show at Njukiri Grounds, King’ori said many traders had fallen victim to these imposters and often ended up paying bribes to avoid alleged prosecution.
He urged traders to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a KEBS inspector before engaging with them. “We are asking business owners to confirm credentials of inspectors visiting their businesses by contacting our offices,” King’ori said. He emphasized that KEBS inspectors do not ask for bribes nor do they carry out arrests.
To help traders authenticate inspectors, the bureau has provided a verification mechanism through a toll-free line. Business owners can send the HR Number of any staff member claiming to be an inspector to short code 20023 or call 1545 for confirmation.
King’ori also raised concerns about a group masquerading as the “Consumer Protection Unit,” conducting illegal raids, harassing traders, and demanding bribes under the guise of enforcing standards. He stressed that KEBS’s mandate is to support small and micro enterprises (SMEs) in achieving compliance rather than frustrate them, contrasting with the actions of these imposters.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Embu Branch Chair, Mugo Mate, called for greater collaboration with KEBS to support SMEs through training and empowerment rather than enforcement. “Traders are willing to comply if given the right guidance,” he said.
Mate further suggested that KEBS focus on manufacturers and entry points of substandard goods rather than targeting small traders who may unknowingly sell such items.
By Samuel Waititu
