consumer 17 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Stay Alert: Spotting Counterfeit Goods While Shopping in Uganda
Ugandan consumers face risks from substandard and fake products like juices, sugars, and cosmetics, often sold by unaware traders duped by manufacturers. UNBS campaigns urge vigilance, checking for Q-marks and proper labels to ensure safety and compliance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/homes-and-property/what-to-watch-out-for-when-shopping-5394066
Counterfeit products flood Ugandan markets through supply chains involving unwitting traders and shady manufacturers. A national UNBS campaign, ‘Ffa Kumutindo’ in Mukono, highlights the need for shoppers to verify goods at home.
Jane Namubiru bought juice, oil, sugar, and skincare from a Kampala roadside vendor, only to learn later it lacked the UNBS Q-mark and complied with US EAS 77:2019 standards. Street purchases offer no easy recourse for complaints.
John Ndaigi from Mukono found his local shop measuring sugar with cups instead of scales, violating metrology rules. UNBS and police shut it down temporarily, mandating proper equipment.
A UNBS audit exposed systemic issues: budget shortages, staffing gaps, and inefficiencies leave consumers exposed to health risks from non-compliant foods, drinks, and cosmetics. A survey found 77.4% of sampled goods missing Q-marks, with 26 lacking any branding; eastern Uganda had the worst compliance.
UNBS spokesperson Sylvia Kirabo stresses educating buyers on certified items and partnering with traders for compliance as a business must. Market surveillance expert Daniel Arorwa calls for public reporting of suspicious products and stronger stakeholder ties.
Business consultant Peter Hakuza praises outreach efforts, pushing for permanent programs, zero tolerance on fakes, and anti-corruption measures to block substandard goods.
Vigilance remains key—check labels, weights, and marks to protect yourself.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)