Uganda National Bureau of Standards has joined the global community in commemorating World Metrology Day, reaffirming the importance of accurate measurement systems in promoting fair trade, consumer protection, and evidence-based policy making.

Speaking during the commemoration, the Executive Director of UNBS, Eng. James Kasigwa, said metrology, the science of measurement, remains critical to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation across sectors such as health, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and industry.

Kasigwa noted that many daily transactions, especially in informal markets, are still conducted without standard measurements, a practice he said undermines fairness and consumer confidence. He emphasized that stronger measurement systems are necessary to build trust, improve market efficiency, and support sustainable business growth.

In the health sector, he stressed the importance of properly calibrated medical equipment to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. He warned that uncalibrated devices can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary long-term treatment, placing avoidable pressure on the healthcare system.

Kasigwa also highlighted the role of accurate measurement in the petroleum sector, saying it is essential to ensure consumers receive the correct quantities of fuel while helping government properly account for national resources. He added that precision measurement is increasingly important as Uganda advances its oil and gas industry, where reserve estimates rely on scientific and technical surveys.

On infrastructure development, the UNBS Executive Director called for strict adherence to measurement standards in construction materials and engineering works, particularly in road construction, to guarantee durability, safety, and value for public investment.

The agricultural sector was also identified as a major beneficiary of improved metrology systems. Kasigwa said proper measurement tools, including moisture meters, can help reduce post-harvest losses and improve food safety by controlling aflatoxin contamination linked to improper grain moisture content.

He further observed that metrology will play a central role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and electric mobility depend heavily on precision and data accuracy.

Kasigwa said international evidence shows that investment in national quality infrastructure, including standards, certification frameworks, and measurement systems, generates significant economic returns. He called for continued investment in these systems to support Uganda’s economic growth and industrialization agenda.

UNBS reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Uganda’s metrology systems to enhance consumer protection, industrial growth, innovation, and national development.