Kenya has been elected to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Council for the 2027–2031 term, giving the country a role in the governance and strategic direction of the global standards body. The election was held during the ISO Annual Meeting in Paris.
Kenya’s seat was secured through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), with KEBS Director-General Esther Ngari representing the country. The election involved five competing countries under Group 4.
The ISO Council is a central governance body of the organisation. According to ISO, it consists of 20 member bodies, together with ISO officers and the chairs of several policy-development committees. It has responsibilities covering areas including strategy, policy, finance and governance oversight.
Why the election matters for Kenya
Kenya’s participation gives it an opportunity to contribute to international discussions on standards, quality infrastructure, conformity assessment, trade and industrial development. International standards influence the quality, safety and compatibility of products and services traded across borders.
For Kenyan manufacturers and exporters, standards are particularly relevant because compliance with internationally recognised requirements can affect market access and competitiveness. Kenya’s continued involvement in ISO also provides an avenue for KEBS to bring Kenyan and African perspectives into discussions as standards evolve alongside technology and global trade.
KEBS said the election builds on Kenya’s previous participation in the ISO Council and reflects the country’s continued engagement with the international standards community.
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