The Gambia Standards Bureau on Thursday, 13th November, held a one-day seminar for cosmetic producers, focusing on improving compliance with national cosmetic standards and promoting safer manufacturing practices. The training, held at the Metzy Residence Hotel, centered on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetic products and provided participants with guidance on sourcing raw materials, proper production methods, and effective packaging techniques.
Opening the seminar, Ebrima M. Jallow, Director of Standardisation at the Bureau, said the institution is mandated to champion standardisation, conformity assessment, and metrology to ensure product quality, protect consumers, and enhance industrial competitiveness. He noted that the Bureau currently operates through about 15 technical committees responsible for developing standards across various sectors
Jallow highlighted that the seminar was organised to equip producers with knowledge on GAMS ISO 22716 the national standard for Good Manufacturing Practices for cosmetic products developed by the Technical Committee on Chemicals. He described the initiative as another step toward reinforcing the country’s quality infrastructure in a sector that is becoming increasingly important to both the economy and public health.
He emphasised that adherence to GMP guidelines, which govern production, control, storage, and distribution, will help manufacturers produce safer products, expand their market reach, and build greater consumer trust. Jallow reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to working with businesses and stakeholders to promote quality, safety, and regulatory compliance across all industries.
Lead trainer Mariama Jobarteh of Yadi’s Soap works noted that many of the participants operate in the cosmetic and detergent sectors areas she described as highly profitable but often have a lack in technical knowledge. She stressed the importance of having clear standards to guide production processes, packaging, and storag
Jobarteh added that the Standards Bureau, working with its partners, recognised the need to develop regulations to govern the sector, ensuring that local businesses can grow sustainably and produce goods that meet national and international requirements. She said the training would help safeguard participants’businesses and strengthen the industry’s overall future.
