ISO CERTIFICATION

Chief Guest Dr. Mary Teopista (Center), Amb. Francis Butagira, Registrar General Ms. Mercy K. Kainobwisho and URSB board members pose for a photo at the URSB ISO Certification External Stakeholders celebration

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West Nile Shea Butter Producers Move Closer to GI Status

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) convened a consultative meeting with Shea butter producers from West Nile last week at the Gulu Innovation Village to build consensus among producers and advance ongoing discussions on Geographical Indication registration.

The meeting was attended by shea butter producers from across Gulu, Lango, and Teso to discuss the future of the industry and how to strengthen its market position.

Assistant Commissioner Allan Kakungulu, who represented URSB, told participants that the initiative is part of a wider effort to strengthen producer groups and improve the competitiveness of Uganda’s shea butter on the global market.

He explained that a Geographical Indication is a collectively owned right that links a product to its place of origin, helping to safeguard quality and reputation.

Mr. Kakungulu noted that lessons from earlier consultations in the region have informed the current phase of engagement.

He urged producers to work together in organizing their value chain and meeting the requirements for GI registration, saying this would increase visibility, attract investment and open up premium markets.

Producers welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that GI recognition will not only protect the uniqueness of West Nile shea butter but also raise incomes and support economic growth in their communities.