UNBS, LEEP conclude two-day workshop aimed at enhancing Compliance to lead paint standards

  23rd April , 2026     HITS: 258

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), in collaboration with the Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP), has concluded a two-day workshop aimed at strengthening lead paint monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in Uganda, in line with UNBS’ mandate of consumer protection.

Research findings presented during the workshop highlighted the urgent need for action globally, as Lead exposure has been shown to cause severe and irreversible harm, particularly among children.

In his presentation, the LEEP Project Associate, Dr. Basleal stressed that Paint is one of the most significant yet preventable sources of lead exposure, globally. He further revealed that lead impairs brain development, reduces educational attainment and lifetime earning potential, and contributes to long-term health complications such as cardiovascular disease and hypertension according to research.

The Deputy Executive Director in charge of Standards at UNBS, Ms. Patricia Bageine Ejalu, emphasized the Bureau’s commitment to consumer protection.

“UNBS remains steadfast in enforcing standards that protect Ugandans from harmful substances such as lead in paint. We are committed to ensuring that all paint on the Ugandan market meets the required safety thresholds.” She said.

UNBS developed mandatory standards on lead paint that provide a solid regulatory framework, however, effectiveness of these standards depends on consistent field monitoring, adequate laboratory testing capacity, and firm enforcement actions.

“Reliable and timely testing is at the heart of effective enforcement. Strengthening our laboratory capabilities will enable us to detect non-compliance more efficiently.” Said Mr. Aziz Mukota, the Manager testing department at UNBS.

Speaking on behalf of LEEP, the Program Manager, Dr. Scott, stressed that Lead exposure is entirely preventable, and that LEEPs’ partnership with UNBS demonstrates how targeted interventions, especially in paint regulation, can significantly reduce exposure risks and improve public health outcomes.”

The workshop, held at Standards House in Bweyogerere, brought together key stakeholders to develop practical strategies for improving compliance with national standards that limit lead content in decorative paints to a maximum of 90 parts per million, as required by the Uganda Standards and the harmonized East African Community (EAC) standards. participants included officials from UNBS’ Chemicals and Consumer products division, Chemistry laboratory, Market Surveillance department, Standards department and other staff whose roles align with the workshop objective

Focus points included;

1. Sharing knowledge and best practices in compliance monitoring and enforcement, drawing from regional and international experience.

2. Developing a coordinated monitoring and enforcement plan, including clear procedures for engaging manufacturers in cases of non-compliance.

3. Identifying capacity-building opportunities within UNBS to enhance testing, monitoring, and enforcement efforts over the medium term.

UNBS and LEEP reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in implementing the agreed action plans; strengthened enforcement, enhanced laboratory capacity, and ongoing stakeholder engagement to enhance compliance to lead paint standards.

About LEEP

The Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) is an international Non-Government Organization that works with governments, regulatory authorities and the industry to reduce lead exposure through policy support, research, and targeted interventions.

About UNBS

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards is a government agency mandated to develop, promote and enforce standards to protect public health, safety, and the environment.