Kenya Bureau of Standards managing director Esther Ngari (centre) with other officials celebrate after election in Paris/KEBSKenya has been elected to the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) Council for the 2027–2029 term, marking a significant milestone for the country’s standards body.
Kenya’s election was secured through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), with Managing Director Esther Ngari leading the country’s representation during the ISO annual meeting in Paris.
Kenya contested for the Group 4 position alongside four other countries, with the election outcome giving the country a fresh mandate to participate in the leadership and governance of the international standards system.
The election means Kenya will continue its contribution to the decision-making processes of ISO, building on its previous representation on the council.
The ISO Council is responsible for overseeing the organisation’s strategic direction and governance, making Kenya’s return an opportunity for the country to contribute to discussions shaping international standards.
Kenya Bureau of Standards managing director Esther Ngari (centre) with other officials following the election in Paris/KEBSKEBS said the election reflected the confidence placed in Kenya by members of the international standards community and recognised the country's continued engagement in ISO activities.
“This election means Kenya will continue its contribution to the leadership and governance of the international standards system, building on its previous term on the ISO Council,” KEBS said.
The standards body said Kenya’s successful bid was also a reflection of partnerships developed over the years through active participation in ISO programmes and activities.
The election allows KEBS to bring Kenya’s experience and technical expertise to international discussions as standards bodies respond to changes in the global economy.
Standards play a role in areas ranging from manufacturing and trade to technology, food safety, environmental management and consumer protection, with internationally recognised standards helping facilitate the movement of goods and services across borders.
KEBS said Kenya would use its position to contribute to the development of standards while representing the interests and experiences of developing economies.
The election was announced during the ISO Annual Meeting 2026 in Paris, where representatives of member countries are meeting to discuss issues affecting the global standards system.
The outcome places Kenya among countries participating directly in the governance of the organisation for the next four years.
KEBS described the development as a proud moment for the institution and a recognition of Kenya’s contribution to international standardisation.
“Kenya is ready to serve. Kenya is ready to contribute,” the standards body said in a statement following the election.
The organisation said the new mandate would strengthen Kenya’s participation in global standardisation and provide an avenue for the country to share its experience while learning from other members.
Ngari’s election also places the KEBS leadership at the centre of Kenya’s engagement with ISO during a period when standards are increasingly linked to emerging technologies, changing production systems and evolving international trade requirements.
The ISO Council term will run from 2027 to 2029.
Under the election arrangement, the member obtaining the highest number of votes is exceptionally appointed for an additional two years.
KEBS celebrated the election alongside its partners, stakeholders and members of the wider standards community, describing it as a milestone for Kenya’s participation in international standards governance.
The development comes as Kenya seeks to strengthen its role in global trade and ensure that local industries are able to meet international quality and safety requirements.
Through its renewed representation, Kenya will participate in shaping the standards that influence industries and markets both within the country and internationally.
