Story by Panashe Nagoli
CONSUMERS have welcomed government efforts to protect their rights, particularly through measures aimed at curbing the circulation of counterfeit products on the market.
Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world this Sunday in commemorating World Consumer Rights Day under the theme Safe Products and Confident Consumers.
The annual observance highlights the global commitment to promoting consumer protection, product safety and fair, transparent business practices.
A snap survey conducted among shoppers revealed mixed views on product quality and market confidence, with some consumers acknowledging improvements while calling for stronger enforcement against counterfeit goods.
“The products we have in our markets, depending on which retailer you go to, are significantly safer for us. The issue of counterfeit goods is something that the government should look into because when you go downtown, most products are not the original ones. We are very confident of the safety that the government ensures in terms of the products we come across in shops,” consumers said.
Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, Mrs Rosemary Mpofu emphasised the importance of strengthening product safety systems to protect consumers.
“In a market that is rampant with counterfeit products, it is crucial to understand the importance of product safety to fight malpractices by businesses and protect the consumer.”
In a statement, Minister of Industry and Commerce Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu, noted that Zimbabwe continues to face challenges related to counterfeit goods, smuggling and other forms of business malpractice.
He added that the government intends to strengthen consumer protection through the Consumer Protection Policy 2026–2030, which seeks to reinforce consumer rights and improve market oversight.
Zimbabwe’s main commemorations for World Consumer Rights Day will be held in Masvingo on March 18.
