Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)

The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has successfully extended its awareness campaign on quality standards to 6,597 people, including 97 entrepreneurs, across six districts in the Arusha Region.

The districts covered are namely Karatu, Ngorongoro-Loliondo, Monduli, Longido, and Arusha. The campaign, which began on August 16 and concluded yesterday, was conducted by TBS officials.

TBS Public Relations and Marketing Manager Ms Gladness Kaseka reported that the education was delivered in open spaces such as markets and bus stations, where large numbers of people gathered to receive information.

The campaign aimed to educate the public about the importance of using certified products, how to report substandard or expired products, and the significance of carefully reading packaging information before purchasing.

Ms Kaseka emphasized that combating substandard products is a collective responsibility involving all Tanzanians.

She urged the public to avoid buying products out of habit and to check expiration dates before purchase. If they encounter substandard or expired products, they should contact TBS through its free customer service number.

Additionally, the campaign provided entrepreneurs with guidance on the procedures for certifying their products.

Ms Kaseka highlighted that the sixth-phase government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan recognises the role of entrepreneurs in economic growth and has therefore made the certification process free for small-scale entrepreneurs.

She encouraged entrepreneurs to take advantage of this opportunity by presenting an introductory letter from SIDO to begin the free certification process.

Certified products, according to Ms Kaseka, assure consumers of safety and compliance with international standards, facilitating their sale abroad without barriers.

She noted that the campaign has reached about 97 districts nationwide and will continue in the future.

Entrepreneurs who participated in the campaign hailed TBS for its outreach and educational efforts.

"I now know that once my products have the quality mark, I can sell them anywhere without obstacles, as buyers will trust them being certified by TBS," said entrepreneur Anna Swai.