PARIS, France – Kenya has been elected to the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) Council for the 2027-2031 term, marking a significant milestone for the country and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
The election, which took place on Day 4 of the ISO Annual Meeting 2026 in Paris, saw Kenya, through KEBS Director General Esther Ngari, secure a strong mandate in a highly contested race under Group 4 that attracted five countries.
Kenya, which obtained the most votes in its category, will be exceptionally appointed for an additional two years, extending its influence in the global standards body.
Kenya’s products to global stands
The win means Kenya will continue its contribution to the leadership and governance of the international standards system, building on its previous term on the Council.
Speaking after the announcement on Friday, October 4, KEBS Director General Esther Ngari said the election reflects growing international confidence in Kenya’s leadership in quality standards.
“This election is a vote of confidence in Kenya by the international standards community. It reflects the strength of the partnerships we have built through years of active engagement in ISO and our commitment to quality and trust.
“For KEBS, this is an opportunity to bring Kenya’s experience and expertise to the global table as ISO responds to a rapidly changing world economy. Kenya is ready to serve. Kenya is ready to contribute and shape a future built on trust,” said Ngari.
The ISO Council is the core governance body of ISO, responsible for strategy and policy. Kenya’s continued presence will give Africa a stronger voice in setting international standards that govern trade, technology, safety and sustainability.
The achievement comes at a time when KEBS is pushing to align Kenyan products and services to global standards to boost export competitiveness under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
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