New global accreditation body set to strengthen trade, KENAS says

EUGINE OTIENO-MYGOV

The Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) has welcomed the establishment of the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (Global ACI), describing it as a major milestone set to strengthen international standards and boost global trade.

The new global body, which commenced operations on January 1, 2026, brings together the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) under a single governance structure.

The consolidation is expected to enhance global coordination in accreditation, improve mutual recognition of conformity assessment results and increase confidence in products and services across international markets.

This development enhances the operating environment for national accreditation bodies, including those in developing economies, by improving consistency, recognition, and efficiency in global accreditation systems.

The organisation has also introduced a new identity, website, and digital communication platforms to strengthen engagement and information sharing among accreditation bodies, regulators, industry players and conformity assessment stakeholders globally.

Speaking during the milestone unveiling, Global ACI Chair Brahim Houla said the transition reflects the evolving needs of the global accreditation community.

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Industry, Dr Juma Mukhwana, underscored the role of accreditation in strengthening Kenya’s industrial growth.

“Strengthening accreditation systems is critical in ensuring Kenyan products meet international standards, unlocking opportunities for MSMEs, enhancing competitiveness, and advancing inclusive industrialization,” he said.

KENAS Chief Executive Officer Dr Walter Ongeti. said the new global framework will have far-reaching benefits for Kenya’s quality infrastructure.

“The establishment of Global ACI marks a transformative step in strengthening the global accreditation architecture.

"For Kenya, this unified framework enhances confidence in accredited services, facilitates international recognition, and supports seamless market access for our products and services,” he said.

Global ACI serves as the international authority for the accreditation of laboratories, certification bodies, inspection bodies, proficiency testing providers, validation/verification bodies, reference material producers and biobanks.

Through its Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MRA), it enables the global acceptance of accredited conformity assessment results, thereby supporting international trade, regulatory confidence and consumer protection.

KENAS will leverage this unified global framework to further strengthen accreditation services in Kenya, enhance compliance with international standards, and support the competitiveness of Kenyan products and services in regional and global markets.