Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, Business Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) has partnered with the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) to educate consumers on the safe use of energy at household level and energy consumer rights.
Consumer rights include being treated fairly, receiving accurate bills, having access to reliable and safe energy, and being informed about energy prices and potential outages. Consumers also have the right to seek redress for issues with energy suppliers.
Responding to questions from Zimpapers Business Hub, Zera chief executive officer (CEO), Mr Eddington Mazambani said consumer safety and awareness was critical.
“One of the key functions of the authority is to protect energy consumers from unfair business practices and empower them with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and utilise energy resources safely. This includes educating the public on their rights and responsibilities as energy consumers, promoting the safe use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), explaining Zera’s consumer redress mechanisms, and providing guidance on the safe use of electricity,” he said.
“Given the importance of consumer safety and awareness, Zera has been conducting stakeholder engagements and awareness in various areas throughout the country. Over the years, Zera has been partnering with CCZ during these engagements where they educated consumers on their rights and responsibilities and how they can be assisted when they face challenges with service providers.”
He said in the first quarter of 2025, Zera partnered with CCZ at eleven engagements that were carried out.
Mr Mazambani said consumer engagements have been done in Midlands Province at Lalapanzi and in Chirumhanzu District at Chaka and Drienfontein.
He added: “In Mashonaland Central Province we engaged consumers in Mazowe District at Mvurwi, Nzvimbo and Concession. In Manicaland Province it was in Chimanimani District at St. Patricks Mission, Lydia Chimonyo Mission, St. Charles Lwanga Mission, Rusitu Mission High School and Chimanimani High School.”
Mr Mazambani said these sessions focused on consumer rights and responsibilities that includes providing a clear understanding of consumer rights within the energy sector.
He said consumers were also engaged on safe use of LPG by educating the public on the safe handling, storage and usage of LPG to prevent accidents, which included demonstrations and practical advice.
