Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub
WATCH OUT, parents! The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has fired a warning shot as counterfeit back-to-school goods flood the market, and some of them could put your children’s health at risk!
The ministry, ahead of schools opening urged shoppers to be on high alert as children return to school for the second term.
“Beware of Counterfeit!” the warning screamed. “As you do your back-to-school shopping, be vigilant. Carefully inspect packaging, labels, seals and expiry dates.”
Officials said dodgy dealers are selling fake stationery, snacks, uniforms and even toiletries, some of which may be expired or made from harmful materials.
The ministry urged parents to stick to reputable and authorised retailers and not fall for cheap roadside bargains.
“Counterfeit goods are dangerous to health and sabotage the economy. Report suspicious products to the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC),” the post continued.
The CPC has already launched a nationwide blitz on shady suppliers, raiding shops and markets to flush out fake goods .
“These con artists are playing with people’s lives,” fumed a source close to the campaign. “It’s not just pens and pencils, it is food, soap, even medical supplies!”
Meanwhile, the Ministry isn’t fighting this alone. In a bold move, it has teamed up with church leaders to spread awareness.
Permanent Secretary Dr Thomas Utete Wushe, recently met with representatives from Pastors for Economic Development (ED), led by national chair, Prophetess Idirashe Dongo.
The two sides inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fight shady business practices, raise awareness on consumer rights and protect vulnerable consumers.
Together, they’ll monitor dodgy dealers, push for fair pricing, and keep the pressure on rogue traders.
Fake goods are on the rise, don’t be the next victim!
TOP 5 FAKE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GOODS
1. Stationery (pens, pencils, rulers, etc.)
Effect: Poor quality that breaks easily, ink that fades, and toxic materials that could be harmful if inhaled or ingested.
2. Snacks and packaged food
Effect: May be expired or made in unhygienic conditions. Can cause food poisoning, allergic reactions, or long-term health issues for children.
3. School uniforms
Effect: Often made from low-grade, non-breathable fabric that causes skin rashes, allergies and discomfort. They also wear out quickly, leading to more spending.
4. Toiletries (soaps, deodorants, hand sanitisers)
Effect: May contain harmful chemicals that can cause burns, skin irritation, or eye damage. Some fake sanitisers contain toxic alcohols like methanol.
5. Medical supplies (masks, painkillers, antiseptics)
These can be life-threatening if they’re expired or contain incorrect dosages. Fake masks offer little to no protection.
Overall Negative Effects to Buyers:
Health Risks: Children are exposed to toxic or expired products that can harm their well-being.
Financial Loss: Fake goods wear out quickly or don’t work at all, forcing families to buy replacements sooner.
False Sense of Safety: Especially with items like fake sanitisers or medical supplies, buyers may believe they’re protected when they’re not.
Emotional Stress: Parents may feel guilt or anxiety when fake goods harm their children.
Economic Damage: Counterfeit products sabotage genuine businesses and weaken the national economy.
Bottom Line: Cheap isn’t always a bargain. Always buy from trusted stores and report anything suspicious to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe and the police!
