The African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) is a pan-African standards body, dedicated to enhancing Africa's industrial, technological, and economic development through the harmonization of standards across the continent. Established in 1977 under the auspices of the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union), ARSO’s mission is to facilitate intra-African and global trade by developing standards that ensure quality, safety, and environmental friendliness of products and services.

ARSO collaborates with national standards bodies from its member countries to develop voluntary standards that are recognized across Africa. This collaboration is essential for reducing technical barriers to trade and enhancing Africa's participation in the global market. As a member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and in collaboration with other regional and international standardization bodies, ARSO plays a pivotal role in aligning African standards with global best practices. This ensures that products manufactured in Africa can meet international quality standards, fostering consumer confidence both within and outside the continent.

To achieve its goals, ARSO conducts training programs, workshops, and conferences to raise awareness and build capacity on the importance of standardization and quality assurance. It also organizes the annual "Africa Day of Standardisation", focusing on critical issues relevant to African standards and their impact on trade and industrialization. ARSO’s efforts significantly contribute to sustainable development by promoting standards that enhance the quality and safety of products and services, thus supporting economic development and regional integration in Africa.

For more detailed information about ARSO’s initiatives and impacts, please visit their official website.