By Aldridge Dzvene
Zimbabwe will join the global community in commemorating World Consumer Rights Day on 15 March, with authorities emphasising the need to promote safe products, consumer confidence and fair market practices.
In a statement, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nqobizitha Ndhlovu, said this year’s commemorations will run under the theme “Safe Products and Confident Consumers,” reflecting growing global concerns around product quality, consumer safety and trust in the marketplace.
The Minister noted that the annual commemorations go beyond advocacy and provide an opportunity to address challenges affecting consumers both globally and within Zimbabwe’s domestic market.
He said the initiative seeks to raise awareness and promote a deeper understanding of consumer rights to ensure that the interests of consumers are protected in an increasingly complex commercial environment.
The Minister highlighted that Zimbabwe continues to face challenges related to counterfeit goods, smuggling and other forms of business malpractice, which undermine the country’s industrialisation efforts while exposing consumers to potentially harmful products.
According to the Ministry, these illegal activities also deprive the State of significant revenue through lost duties and taxes, weakening national economic growth while distorting fair competition in the market.
Hon. Ndhlovu emphasised that consumer protection is a critical component in the country’s journey toward achieving the national development vision, noting that the Government has approved the Consumer Protection Policy 2026–2030 to strengthen regulatory frameworks and safeguard consumer interests.
The policy is expected to reinforce consumer rights and ensure that protection mechanisms are inclusive, aligning with the national development principle of leaving “no one and no place behind.”
Zimbabwe will officially commemorate World Consumer Rights Day on 18 March 2026 at the Urban Lifestyles Hotel in Masvingo.
The Ministry has called on citizens, businesses and stakeholders to participate in the commemorations and support Government efforts to promote quality standards, market transparency and consumer empowerment.
Authorities say strengthening consumer awareness and encouraging law-abiding business practices are key steps toward building a fair and trusted marketplace that supports Zimbabwe’s broader economic development agenda.
