UNBS Cracks Down on Illegal Paint Manufacturers in Downtown Kampala

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has uncovered an illegal paint manufacturing operation in downtown Kampala, where unregistered individuals were producing counterfeit and substandard paint products.

Acting on market intelligence, a UNBS enforcement team raided a site located on the rooftop of Naiga Plaza in the city’s central business district. The site was found to be operating without government registration and without meeting the technical or safety standards required for paint production.

“These people are not genuine manufacturers. They are not registered by government and are operating illegally,” said a UNBS official during the inspection.

According to UNBS, the individuals found at the site had no technical competence or understanding of paint standards, including the regulated levels of lead, a dangerous heavy metal prohibited beyond certain limits in paint manufacturing. Lead exposure, especially in household and children’s environments, poses serious health risks.

“The people we found here have no knowledge whatsoever on what paint is supposed to be made of. They cannot make decisions to put a quality product on the market,” the official emphasized.

Counterfeiting of Known Brands

The enforcement team discovered that the illegal operators were counterfeiting over six well-known paint brands that had been certified by UNBS including brands such as Plascon. The fake products were packaged in branded containers, complete with forged certification seals, and distributed to unsuspecting retailers and consumers across Kampala.

“These counterfeiters are not only cheating consumers but also hurting genuine manufacturers who pay taxes and comply with national standards,” UNBS noted.

Currently, Uganda has over 40 certified paint manufacturers producing more than 230 approved brands under UNBS supervision. These certified companies adhere to strict quality standards to ensure product safety, durability, and environmental compliance.

Impact on the Economy and Fair Trade

The Bureau warned that such illegal operations undermine the country’s industrial growth and economic development. Counterfeit products distort fair competition and divert revenue away from legitimate businesses and the government.

“As part of the government’s drive for economic growth, such unregulated activities cannot be permitted. They rob the economy of revenue and erode consumer trust,” said the UNBS representative.

Progress and Ongoing Efforts

UNBS has over the years intensified market surveillance and enforcement operations to curb counterfeiting and substandard goods across various sectors. Through public awareness campaigns, product certification, and factory inspections, the Bureau continues to safeguard Ugandans from harmful and poor-quality products.

Consumers are encouraged to look out for the UNBS Quality (Q) Mark before purchasing products such as paint, cosmetics, electricals, and food items. The mark is an assurance that the product has met the required safety and performance standards.

Challenges Ahead

Despite progress, UNBS continues to face challenges such as limited public awareness, resource constraints, and the growing sophistication of counterfeiters who forge certification labels and packaging. The Bureau, however, remains committed to working with other government agencies, manufacturers, and the public to eliminate fake products from the market.

“Our role is to protect consumers and promote fair trade. We call upon Ugandans to report suspicious products or operations so that together we can build a safe and trusted market,” the official urged.

Conclusion

The UNBS crackdown at Naiga Plaza serves as a strong reminder of the dangers of counterfeit goods and also the importance of supporting genuine, certified Ugandan manufacturers. As UNBS continues to tighten its enforcement, the public’s vigilance and cooperation remain key in protecting lives, the economy, as well as the integrity of Uganda’s market.