CCZ demands prison time for peddlers of counterfeit goods

The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at combating the influx of counterfeit and substandard goods that are threatening public health, legitimate businesses, and State revenue.

The "National Awareness Campaign on Anti-Counterfeits" was launched in Kwekwe by CCZ chief executive officer Mrs Rosemary Mpofu, during an event attended by senior Government officials and business executives.

Mrs Mpofu described the rise in counterfeit goods as a "serious and direct threat to public health and safety," affecting vital sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, and solar equipment.

She said the CCZ's provincial offices were recording an increasing number of consumer complaints, particularly from informal markets where fake and unsafe products are being openly sold.

"The proliferation of counterfeits is a national concern that undermines consumer confidence and endangers lives," she said. "We are receiving worrying reports across provinces, especially from the informal sector where regulation is weak."

The global dimension of the issue, she noted, is equally alarming, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimating that one in every ten medicines in low- and middle-income countries is either substandard or falsified.

In response, the CCZ announced an innovative "Buy CCZ Verified" platform - a multi-channel system powered by artificial intelligence - designed to help consumers verify product authenticity in real time. The platform will operate through a website, WhatsApp and USSD code, allowing users to scan QR codes, locate authorised sellers, and report counterfeit products instantly.

The platform is expected to be officially launched before the end of the year.

Mrs Mpofu also called for tougher penalties and stronger enforcement against offenders. "To effectively curb this scourge, authorities must complement existing punitive measures with stricter penalties, including custodial sentences for those found complicit in the manufacture, distribution or sale of counterfeit goods," she said.

She further urged increased surveillance at border posts and informal industrial sites, which she described as "hotbeds of counterfeit production and smuggling."

The national campaign will include a series of roadshows across all provinces, spearheaded by event partner Proma Events Africa (PEA).

PEA chief executive officer Mr Blessing Jeke said the roadshows will feature exhibitions, interactive discussions and community engagements aimed at educating consumers, empowering enforcement agencies and promoting ethical trade practices.

"The fight against counterfeit goods requires a collective approach involving Government, businesses and the public. We are inviting all stakeholders to participate by showcasing authentic products and promoting consumer awareness," said Mr Jeke.

The campaign will culminate in a National Conference on Counterfeit Goods, where policymakers, business leaders and regulators will discuss sustainable strategies to address the issue.

President Mnangagwa is expected to deliver the keynote address at the conference, signalling high-level commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fair trade in Zimbabwe.

Consumers have been urged to stay vigilant, verify products before purchasing, and report any suspicious goods to safeguard both their health and the integrity of the market.