Online Reporter
Online Reporter
THE Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has launched a major “National Awareness Campaign on Anti-Counterfeits” aimed at tackling the massive influx of fake and substandard goods that are threatening public health, legitimate businesses and State revenue.
The campaign was launched in Kwekwe by CCZ chief executive officer Mrs Rosemary Mpofu.
The event was attended by top Government officials and business executives.
Mpofu described the proliferation of counterfeit products as a “serious and direct threat to public health and safety” that cuts across critical sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts and solar equipment.
She revealed that the CCZ provincial offices are receiving numerous complaints, highlighting a problem exacerbated by the mushrooming informal sector, where these dangerous products are openly sold in marketplaces and along major streets.
The threat aligns with global concerns, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimating that at least one in 10 medicines in low- and middle-income countries are substandard or falsified.
In a key announcement, the council revealed an internal solution to empower consumers through the “Buy CCZ Verified” multi-channel platform.
The system, utilising Web, WhatsApp and USSD code, and powered by artificial intelligence (AI), enables consumers to instantly verify product authenticity using QR codes, locate authorised sellers and report counterfeit products in real-time.
The initiative is expected to be officially launched before the end of the year.
Beyond consumer education and technology, the CCZ boss called for immediate and tougher action from authorities.
“As CCZ, we believe that in order to curtail this national scourge, authorities can complement existing punitive measures by strengthening deterrent initiatives, meting out stricter penalties that should include custodial sentences for those found complicit in the manufacture, distribution or sale of counterfeit goods,” said Mpofu.
She also urged closer monitoring and frequent enforcement blitzes at porous border posts and makeshift backyard industries, which she labelled as havens for counterfeit operations.
The campaign will be executed through nationwide “National Counterfeit Goods Awareness Roadshows” announced by event partner Proma Events Africa (PEA).
Mr Blessing Jeke, chief executive officer of PEA, confirmed the roadshows will travel across all provinces to educate consumers, empower enforcement authorities and engage businesses.
“Through exhibitions, interactive discussions and community engagements, the campaign seeks to strengthen consumer trust and promote ethical trade practices,” he said.
“We recognise that the fight against counterfeit goods requires collaboration between the public and private sectors. To that end, we are inviting manufacturers, retailers, distributors and brands to take part in the roadshows by showcasing and marketing their authentic products.”
The campaign is set to culminate in a “National Conference on Counterfeit Goods”, where key stakeholders will deliberate on sustainable policies.
The national conference is expected to draw high-level attention, with President Mnangagwa anticipated to deliver a keynote address.
The organisers of the event urged consumers to be vigilant, verify before they buy and act as whistle-blowers to safeguard health and market integrity.
