By Sallieu S. Kanu
Deputy Executive Director of the Standards Bureau, Jogor Bah, has announced the rollout of standardized market measuring tools for essential commodities such as rice, palm oil, sugar, and pepper.
This initiative, launched at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, aims to ensure consistency in pricing and fair-trade practices throughout Sierra Leone’s markets.
Jogor Bah told journalists that following extensive consultations with petty traders across the country, the Standards Bureau would begin implementing the new measuring cups in November, with an initial focus on the Western Area. The plan will extend to all regions nationwide, unifying market measurements and enhancing consumer protection.
He highlighted the Standards Bureau’s commitment to quality assurance, noting that the bureau is responsible for establishing criteria that products must meet before they can be traded or exported. He explained that the new measuring cups are designed to replace the various bottles and containers that are used to measure commodities like cooking oil, palm oil, and palm kernel oil. Other staple goods, such as rice, sugar, salt, and groundnuts, will also see standardized measurements introduced.
Bah demonstrated the new measuring tools, emphasizing the active role of market associations and the Traders Union in facilitating this transition.
Speaking on behalf of market women, Chairlady of Congo Market Chief Ya Alimamy T. Fofanah expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to incorporate informal sectors into standardized trade practices. “We are the government, and the government is us. We should go side by side,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of equitable measures for all stakeholders.
This rollout of standardized measurement tools marks a significant step forward in promoting fair trade and enhancing consumer confidence across Sierra Leone’s markets.