As the country commemorates World Metrology Day under the theme “Measurements for All Time, All People,” the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has urged business enterprises to maintain accurate measuring instruments, reinforcing the importance of measurement precision in trade, health, and consumer protection.
World Metrology Day, observed annually on May 20, celebrates the significance of measurement science in daily life, marking the Metric Convention of 1875, which established a globally unified metric system for fair trade and standardization.
Gloria Nyoka Joseph, Executive Director of SSNBS, emphasized that ensuring accurate measurements is vital for maintaining product quality, fostering consumer trust, and strengthening South Sudan’s economic framework.
“It calls attention to the universal relevance of measurements in ensuring quality, supporting public health, safeguarding the environment, and facilitating technological advancement,” Nyoka said. “Whether in times of stability or crisis, the integrity of our measurement systems remains vital to inform decision-making and sustainable progress.”
However, South Sudan’s measurement systems face several challenges, including weak infrastructure, outdated equipment, and limited public awareness.
The SSNBS has struggled with enforcing measurement standards due to inadequate funding and a shortage of specialized personnel. Businesses often lack the technical expertise needed to comply with regulations, making fair trade practices harder to implement.
Nyoka highlighted the need for strengthened metrology infrastructure, calling it a “cornerstone of socio-economic transformation,” and urged businesses to recognize the critical role of accurate measurements in aligning with international standards and protecting consumer rights.
“Accurate measurements are integral to ensuring product quality, maintaining consumer confidence, promoting fair trade, and meeting international benchmarks,” she stressed.
With these challenges in mind, SSNBS is advocating for greater investment in metrology infrastructure, expanded training programs, and public awareness initiatives to educate businesses and consumers on the benefits of accurate measurements.
“The narratives around measurement precision should not be overlooked,” Nyoka stated. “We must commit to enhancing our measurement capabilities for the betterment of South Sudan’s economy and public safety.”
As South Sudan observes World Metrology Day, the call for standardization and consumer protection is louder than ever. Strengthening measurement practices will not only support fair trade but also ensure a more reliable, transparent, and economically stable future for the country.
