Quality test: the inspiring journey of Côte d’Ivoire’s testing laboratories supported by UNIDO

Having a product tested through internationally-recognized accredited laboratories adds value as it ensures quality – a key ingredient for gaining consumers’ trust, increasing business competitiveness and integrating new markets. In West Africa, the development of a quality infrastructure has been identified as a key measure to strengthen regional trade and economic integration.

In Côte d’Ivoire, UNIDO’s support for Environment and Agribusiness Laboratories (ENVAL) has allowed the private entity to flourish: “In just a few years, we have managed to set up seven laboratories, each of which is the best in its field,” said Bakary Coulibaly, ENVAL’s Director General. “The support of the West Africa Quality Programmes has been decisive in this success.”

The West Africa Quality System Programme (WAQSP), funded by the European Union in the tune of 12 Million Euros and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, provided support to the laboratories in the ISO/IEC 17025 standard accreditation process by strengthening the capacities of technicians, including on metrology and audit, and by supporting the acquisition of new equipment. Accreditation to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard confirms that laboratories are fully competent to carry out tests and calibrations, including sampling, competently and generate valid results. To date, two of ENVAL’s seven laboratories have received their accreditation. Côte d'Ivoire now has laboratories whose field of competence is broad and which can advise on quality-related problems and support the development of new products.

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For more information:  Mr. Bernard Bau (B.Bau [at] unido.org)