TRADERS should be alert and clear their shelves or stands if at all they have sub standard goods because Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has embarked on a crusade to cleanse the market of substandard goods starting today.
Like a vigilant knight, the ZCSA is wielding its sword of inspection, ready to strike down any product that dares to fall short of the highest quality standards.
From the bustling markets of Lusaka to the remote trading posts of the Copperbelt, the ZCSA’s army of inspectors will scour the land, leaving no stone unturned.
In a statement, ZCSA communications and public relations manager Brian Hatyoka said the national Open Market Surveillance (OMS) inspections across nine provinces aims to protect consumers and the environment by enforcing compliance on a range of products.
The inspections, which has started today will end in the next 15 days on November 25.
ZCSA will cover a wide scope of items, including food products, beverages, household appliances, fertilisers, and more.
Hatyoka said the agency is set to scrutinise locally manufactured and imported products alike, ensuring they meet safety and quality standards required by Zambian law.
Non-compliant items will be seized withdrawn from the market by ZCSA and destroyed under Section 16 4(b) of the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017, a legal mandate that allows ZCSA to act decisively in the interest of public and environmental health.
“Protecting consumers from unsafe products and minimising environmental risks are our top priorities,” said Hatyoka.
“Through this expanded inspection initiative, we aim to identify unregistered suppliers and prevent non-compliant goods from entering the hands of consumers.”
This year’s inspection effort surpasses that of 2023, both in scope and intensity, as it now covers nine provinces rather than six previously.
ZCSA is striving to maintain the upward trend in compliance rates, which increased from 85 percent in 2022 to 89 percent in 2023.
Meanwhile, a consumer, Norman Siafudu has welcomed the move by ZCSA stating that the inspection will safeguard the health of consumers and ensure that traders have quality goods to service their customers.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba November 11, 2024
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