Check Labels, Avoid Unsafe Goods

ZCSA Warns Public to Be Wary of Unsafe Products During Kuomboka Ceremony

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (March 27, 2026) – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has warned the public to be cautious of unsafe products and advised actionable steps—buy certified products, read labels, and report suspicious items—to protect their health during celebrations.

According to Onishias Maamba, Public Relations Officer of ZCSA, large gatherings such as the Kuomboka Ceremony attract traders selling unverified products, which pose serious risks to public health and safety.

Speaking on Thursday, March 26, 2026, ZCSA Manager for Communications and Public Relations, Brian Hatyoka, led a delegation from ZCSA and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in a courtesy call on Western Province Principal Education Standards Officer (PESO), Richard Imasiku, on the sidelines of the Kuomboka celebrations.

The visit aimed to emphasize consumer safety and raise awareness about safe consumption practices.

“This initiative is part of a joint ZCSA–CCPC School Clubs program designed to promote consumer rights and protect pupils’ safety,” Mr. Hatyoka said.

He explained that educating pupils on product safety helps build a culture of awareness, empowering them to make informed decisions that safeguard their health.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, ZCSA withdrew non-compliant products valued at K17,346 in Western Province alone, out of a total of K440,645.89 withdrawn nationwide.

Mr. Hatyoka urged pupils and other consumers to carefully read product labels and report suspicious items to ZCSA so enforcement actions can be taken.

He stressed that product labels should clearly indicate the name of the product, manufacturer’s address, batch number, list of ingredients, country of origin, storage instructions, directions for use, manufacturing date, and expiry date.

“The language on the product label must be in English, even if other languages are included,” he added.

Kevin Mainza, CCPC Provincial Investigator, emphasized the importance of educating pupils early about their consumer rights. 

He noted that pupils are among the most active consumers, interacting with a wide range of products, and need information on expiry dates and other critical details to make safe choices.

Mr. Imasiku thanked ZCSA and CCPC for empowering pupils with knowledge on consumer rights and product safety.

“Learners are often exposed to unscrupulous traders, so these public awareness interventions are timely and ensure that they grow into responsible and informed consumers,” he said.

ZCSA, a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, is mandated by the Compulsory Standards Act CAP 422 to enforce compulsory standards for public safety, consumer protection, and environmental protection.