11/05/2026
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has raised concern over the increasing influx of substandard goods in Northern Kenya, warning residents to remain vigilant against unsafe products entering local markets.
Speaking during a media engagement in Garissa Town, KEBS North Eastern Regional Chief Manager Dr Abdikarim Abdow said the region’s porous borders and proximity to neighbouring countries had exposed local markets to products that fail to meet the required safety and quality standards.
According to Dr Abdow, some of the products being sold in shops and homes pose serious health risks to consumers, particularly food items that have either expired or failed laboratory quality tests.
“People need to be vigilant about the products they consume because some pose a danger to their health,” said Dr Abdow, urging residents to always check for the official KEBS quality mark before purchasing goods.
The agency revealed that it had recently confiscated and destroyed several consignments of substandard products from markets within the region after laboratory analysis confirmed they were unfit for human consumption. Among the products of concern were sugar products that had previously failed quality assessments.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over the circulation of unsafe and uncertified goods across Northern Kenya, a trend authorities say threatens public health and undermines consumer safety.
As part of its consumer protection campaign, KEBS held an awareness session with journalists in Garissa to strengthen public understanding of standards, quality assurance and consumer safety. The agency noted that the media plays a key role in educating the public on how to identify certified and safe products.
Dr Abdow called for stronger collaboration between the media, consumers and enforcement agencies in addressing the spread of substandard goods across the region.
KEBS also encouraged consumers to make use of its SMS verification system to confirm whether products are certified before purchasing them. Members of the public can verify products by sending the permit number in the format “SM Number” to 20023.
At the same time, the standards agency cautioned residents against fraudsters impersonating KEBS officials to extort traders and unsuspecting members of the public. Consumers were advised to verify the identity of KEBS officers by sending “HR Number” to 20023, which provides details including the officer’s name, position and employment status.
The agency says increased public awareness and community cooperation will be key in protecting consumers from substandard and unsafe products in Northern Kenya.
