By Sulaiman Jalloh
Sierra Leone’s Standards Bureau has announced the introduction of measuring instrument into the local market for measuring certain essential commodities like rice, sugar and oil among others. The announcement was made amidst complains of lack of price control, dishonest practices by some traders hence it will protect consumers from fraud in the country.
Speaking recently at the government weekly press briefing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at the Miata conference center in Freetown, Jogor Bah, Deputy Executive Director Sierra Leone Standard Bureau said the measuring cups will be sold to marketers for cost recovery.
According to Bah, starting this November, the Ministry of Trade along with the Standard Bureau will start distributing standardized measuring cups to traders across Sierra Leone. “We are working with petty traders, traders’ union and consultations are ongoing” he noted emphasizing that the market women will help to role the cups out. He added that they want to standardize all the measurement in the markets.
These cups will play a crucial role in ensuring fair trade practices and protecting consumers from fraud this will enable the government to ensure price control in the country.
It is evident that dishonest among traders have led to customers receiving less product than they paid for, undermining trust in local markets.
The distribution of these standardized measuring cups aims and instruments will help the government to promote transparency and accountability in trade, ensuring that consumers receive the correct quantity of goods. The Ministry of Trade and standard bureau are committed to improving market standards and fostering fair trading environments.
Mr. Bah encouraged trader and marketers to adopt these measuring cups as part of their business operations, which is expected to enhance customer confidence and ultimately benefit both consumers and honest traders alike. He said rulers also have made for people measuring using tape rule, noting all of the measuring equipment’s have the logo of ten standard bureau.
