The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has issued a caution to consumers regarding reports of expired products being sold by some establishments in Mashonaland Central. In addition to this concerning trend, there are also instances of tampering with expiry dates, a practice that has raised alarms at the CPC.

These revelations came to light during a road show organized by POTRAZ, CPC, and their partners in Bindura aimed at educating the public on consumer rights. The CPC seized the opportunity to ensure compliance and penalize non-compliant businesses.

In a statement, Miss Sanelisiwe Sibanda, the CPC’s Education and Awareness Officer, stated their readiness to take legal action against businesses found tampering with product expiry dates. Among the expired items discovered on shelves are flour, rice, beverages, and various food products. Additionally, there is a troubling influx of unlicensed food items like polony, agricultural products, and uncertified imports.

Sibanda highlighted concerns over disclaimer clauses that violate consumer rights, urging shoppers to inspect expiry dates before making purchases. She noted that some businesses in Bindura are unlawfully displaying exclusionary policies on receipts, refusing returns, refunds, and exchanges, contravening Section 42 of the Consumer Protection Act.

She emphasized the importance of informed consumers who understand their rights and are vigilant against violations. The ongoing campaign aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of inclusivity, ensuring that every individual and community is safeguarded.

Furthermore, Mr. Phibion Chaibva, the Consumer Affairs Manager at POTRAZ, underscored the collaboration with RBZ, CPC, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Consumer Council of Zimbabwe in addressing consumer issues. The road show, initiated in Rushinga and extending to Mt Darwin, Dotito, and Pachanza, aims to empower consumers with knowledge on topics such as mobile money transactions and digital financial services.

Chaibva stressed the importance of consumer protection and the need for consumers to transact with licensed service providers. Issues like unsuccessful transactions, data concerns, and reversals are being addressed, with efforts to enable consumers to transfer expiring data efficiently. As the campaign traverses Mashonaland Central, both urban and rural residents demonstrate a shared awareness of consumer rights.