The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Trade, Industrialization, Tourism, and Investment, began at Nyambari Shopping Centre on Wednesday, November 5, and will be rolled out across all sub-counties.
The exercise aims to ensure traders comply with the Weights and Measures Act (Cap 513) by testing, inspecting, and stamping weighing and measuring instruments used in business transactions. The move seeks to protect consumers from unfair practices while fostering integrity among traders.
Chief Officer for Trade and Investments, Solomon Kibue, said the initiative is designed to build public confidence and ensure both consumers and traders operate under transparent and equal conditions.
“Verification of weighing and measuring instruments is a critical step towards building a transparent business environment,” said Mr Kibue. “It guarantees that both consumers and traders operate on an equal footing, promoting confidence and accountability across all markets.”
The Directorate of Weights and Measures has already completed inspections in Ndumberi, Ting’ang’a, Kiambu, and Kiamumbi, and will move next to Thindigua and Turitu Shopping Centre before covering the rest of Lari Municipality.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industrialization, Tourism, and Investment, Susan Gatwiri, said the exercise reflects Kiambu’s broader goal of enforcing trade standards and safeguarding consumers from exploitation.
“This countywide program demonstrates our firm commitment to ensuring fairness and transparency in every marketplace,” said Gatwiri. “By maintaining standardized and accurate measurement systems, we are building a business environment that rewards honesty and quality service.”
Local residents have praised the move, saying it will promote fairness in pricing and protect consumers.
“Sometimes we are unsure whether the scales used in markets are accurate,” said Mary Wanjiru, a shopper at Nyambari Shopping Centre. “When the County verifies these instruments, it gives us confidence that we are getting what we pay for.”
The verification drive will cover all major trading centres across Kiambu, reinforcing the county’s agenda to promote fair competition, boost trader credibility, and safeguard consumer welfare.
