The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has issued a total of 145 certificates and licenses to manufacturers between June and November this year, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of quality and excellence in Tanzanian industries. These certifications and licenses were awarded to producers whose products met the stringent criteria set by TBS, including six certifications for quality management system standards and 13 licenses for producers who had already obtained TBS licenses but expanded their product offerings.
Remarkably, 60 of the certificates were granted to Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs), underscoring the commitment to supporting and promoting smaller businesses in the country's industrial landscape. During a recent event held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, Mr. Lazaro Msasalaga, the Director of Quality Management at TBS, commended the entrepreneurs for their dedication to meeting the necessary criteria to receive quality marks. These certifications and licenses serve as a testament to the quality and reliability of their products, which in turn open doors to regional and global markets.
Mr. Msasalaga emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards, stating, "These certificates and licenses reflect the producer's commitments since their products have met the required standards, so they are required to continue producing quality products to gain more confidence from buyers, thus guaranteeing a reliable market." He also credited the Small Industries Development Organisation (SIDO) for its entrepreneurial career classes, which played a pivotal role in preparing manufacturers for certification. The theme for this year's quality standard day, "Quality, realize your capacity to compete," serves as a reminder to producers to prioritize the production of quality products to remain competitive in the market. Mr. Msasalaga reiterated, "As the law instructs on the production of quality products for final users, you should also take it as a reminder towards making quality products which will build customers' trust and confidence in markets."
In a stern warning, Mr. Msasalaga cautioned manufacturers who falsely claim to produce quality products to obtain certificates but then continue to produce substandard goods. Such practices not only jeopardize the well-being of consumers but also expose producers to potential legal consequences.
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards, established as part of the government's efforts to bolster institutional infrastructure in the industry and commerce sectors, is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring quality control across a wide range of products and promoting standardization in industry and commerce. This latest round of certifications and licenses underscores their commitment to elevating Tanzanian industries and ensuring consumer safety and satisfaction.
With TBS playing a pivotal role in raising quality standards and fostering a culture of excellence in manufacturing, Tanzanian producers are better positioned than ever to compete in both domestic and international markets, contributing to the nation's economic growth and development.