KEBS Hosts Diamond Mark Holders’ Breakfast to Celebrate Manufacturing Excellence and Quality Standards
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The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) today convened a high-level Diamond Mark Holders Engagement Breakfast at the Nairobi Serena Hotel, bringing together leading industrial players in a celebration of Kenya’s manufacturing excellence and a reaffirmation of quality as the cornerstone of global competitiveness.
The prestigious event was attended by top leadership from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the National Standards Council. Among the dignitaries present were:
Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary – Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment
Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Principal Secretary – State Department for Industry
Dr. Chris Wamalwa, Chair – National Standards Council
Ms. Esther Ngari, Managing Director – Kenya Bureau of Standards
The event honored holders of the Diamond Mark of Quality (D-Mark)—KEBS’ highest certification symbolizing product excellence, consistent manufacturing, and global market readiness. The D-Mark is a voluntary certification that goes beyond the standard product mark, awarded only to manufacturers who consistently demonstrate superior product quality and compliance with internationally recognized standards.
In her remarks, KEBS Managing Director Ms. Esther Ngari emphasized the significance of the D-Mark, noting that:
“This mark is not just a certification it is a promise to consumers, to markets, and to the global supply chain that Kenyan products meet the highest standards. Quality is the new currency in international trade, and our manufacturers must lead from the front.”
Speaking during the event, Mohammed Hassan Ali, Director of Royal Group of Companies, shared how the Diamond Mark has transformed his company’s business.
“We are proud holders of the Diamond Mark for our steel, plastic tanks, and, most recently, HDPE pipes. This voluntary certification has played a key role in building trust with our customers. They know they are getting quality,” he stated. “When clients ask for certifications, we show them the D-Mark. That alone seals the deal. It’s a powerful marketing tool and a badge of integrity.”
The Royal Group of Companies—engaged in manufacturing steel, TMT bars, plastic tanks, PVC and HDPE pipes has held the Diamond Mark for its tanks for over six years, obtained it for its steel products in 2022, and received certification for HDPE pipes during today’s event. The group also operates in real estate through King’s Developers.
Mr. Ali also highlighted the challenge of counterfeits in the market, especially in PVC and steel products:
“Kenya’s market is diverse. There are those who prioritize price and those who prioritize quality. For the latter, the D-Mark is a must-have. It gives confidence and protection to the end user.”
He urged fellow manufacturers to pursue the certification, saying:
“Quality is everything in today’s market, especially with the influx of cheap and counterfeit goods. The Diamond Mark is the future it’s where Kenya is headed.”
Cabinet Secretary Hon. Lee Kinyanjui praised the private sector’s commitment to quality, stating that the government is committed to strengthening quality assurance frameworks to boost export competitiveness and attract investment.
“We are working with KEBS and industry players to ensure that Kenyan products are not only competitive regionally but globally. Standards must not be seen as barriers they are enablers of sustainable industrial growth.”
The Diamond Mark Breakfast provided a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and recognizing manufacturers who are leading the way in quality assurance. KEBS reaffirmed its dedication to working with industries to promote product excellence, ensure consumer safety, and enhance Kenya’s image in international markets.
As Kenya eyes industrial transformation and increased exports under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), the emphasis on quality and standards will be critical. KEBS’ Diamond Mark remains a gold standard in that journey.
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