SCHOOLS RISK FINES OVER UNIFORM RULES

Non-compliant schools face penalties for restricting uniform suppliers, CCPC warns

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 — (21-01-2026) - The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has warned Zambian schools that forcing parents and learners to buy uniforms from specific suppliers violates consumer rights, undermines fair market competition, and could lead to heavy fines.

Senior Public Relations Officer Florence M. Zaza told Zambia24 that schools must respect consumer choice and cannot mandate exclusive purchases from any supplier.

Ms. Zaza told Zambia24 that while schools can set standards and guidelines for uniforms, they cannot mandate exclusive purchases from the school or any designated supplier. 

“Schools must avoid actions that may lead to inflated prices or compromised quality of uniforms,” she said.

According to Ms. Zaza, the restriction of uniform suppliers is particularly common at the start of the academic year, often leaving parents with limited options and higher costs. 

“Such practices not only disadvantage consumers but also breach the Competition and Consumer Protection Act,” she added.

Ms. Zaza further warned that schools found in violation of these regulations face penalties of up to 150,000 penalty units for individuals and 10% of annual turnover for enterprises.

She also encouraged the public to report any schools engaging in exclusive supplier arrangements, commending members of the public who have already come forward. 

“Your actions help protect consumer rights and promote fair market practices in Zambia,” Ms. Zaza said.