Lira millers irked by UNBS short ultimatum for certification

By Acipa Doreen

Lira—16, November 2021: On Thursday 11, November 2021, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) closed dozens of milling factories both in Lira and Apac for lack of certification. Others were closed over poor hygiene within their premises.

After the business shutdown, millers, under their umbrella body Lira Small-Scale Industries Association Limited (LSSIA) on Friday 12 November stormed the offices of the Lira City Mayor, Sam Atul and the Resident City Commissioner, Lawrence Egole.

The millers tabled their petition regarding the closure, requesting the city leaders to intervene.

They also demanded that Lira City leaders call for a meeting with UNBS team. In a meeting held on Monday 15 November at Lira City Council hall, UNBS accepted to unseal the factories it had earlier closed.

Sylvia Kirabo, UNBS spokesperson said they closed the factories because the bureau did not certify it.

Kirabo added that much as the factories are unsealed, the mill owners have three weeks to start all the procedures of registration and get certified. She noted that this will ensure safe products in the market for the safety of consumers.

“… it is to help in growth of businesses in Lango and sale beyond with competitive products. We will commit to train and sensitize the community,” she added.

Lawrence Egole, RCC Lira says that UNBS operations is own going across the country but not only in Lango. The RCC adds that it’s the responsibility of UNBS to ensure that all products in the market are of good quality and meets the health standards. Egole urged the people of Lango to cooperate with UNBS.

Lira City Mayor, Sam Atul advised the LSSIA leaders to work hand in hand and meet the UNBS needs.

UNBS had a meeting with some of the mill owners but not their leaders, and Atul said this means there has been “a very big gap”. “Work together with love,” he told traders.

The Chairperson Lango Millers Association, Emmanuel Akeny said we do not oppose their operation, observing that the three weeks’ ultimatum for registration is not sufficient.

He requested for two years for the registration and certification. Akeny also said UNBS office should be up and running to assist them because they won’t be travelling to Gulu for registration. 

In response to the two years request, Kirabo said the Executive Director UNBS shall decide and communicate back to the team.