FCC promotes sustainable consumer practices

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Fair Competition Commission (FCC) has announced that this year’s Consumer Protection Week will feature educational initiatives at universities, roadside locations and regional offices aimed at promoting consumer awareness and rights.

FCC Director General Mr William Erio made the announcement in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, marking the launch of the Consumer Protection Week celebrations.

He explained that this year’s events will culminate on March 17th, instead of the usual March 15, to align with the global observance of World Consumer Protection Day.

“This year’s theme, ‘A Just Transition to Sustainable Consumerism,’ emphasises the need to empower consumers to make informed choices while recognising their rights and responsibilities in the marketplace,” said Mr Erio.

He said that the theme, set by Consumers International, seeks to strengthen efforts to equip consumers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the marketplace responsibly.

Mr Erio stressed that consumer rights go hand in hand with consumer responsibilities.

“There can be no rights without responsibilities. Consumers must be proactive in seeking information about products and their rights. At the same time, businesses must uphold ethical practices to ensure fair treatment of consumers,” he said.

He further explained that the theme also aims to ensure that consumer lifestyles and consumption patterns do not negatively impact individuals or society.

“Tanzania is fortunate to have a visionary leader in President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has been ahead of her time in championing sustainable energy use,” said Mr Erio.

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“The push for clean energy, which aligns with this year’s theme, has already been a priority under her leadership.”

In addition to environmental sustainability, this year’s theme highlights the importance of gender equality in consumer protection and advocacy.

Mr Erio said that ensuring fair treatment of all consumers, regardless of gender, is a critical focus. Last year, FCC organised a stakeholders’ meeting during the Consumer Protection Week celebrations in Dar es Salaam.

The meeting, themed “Fair and Responsible Artificial Intelligence for Consumers,” provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss consumer concerns regarding AI-driven services both locally and globally.

The Director of Restrictive Trade Practices at FCC, Magdalena Utoh reiterated the commission’s commitment to tackling unfair business practices and ensuring that consumer interests remain protected as market developments unfold.

As part of this year’s celebrations, FCC will conduct nationwide consumer education campaigns to raise awareness about rights and responsibilities in the marketplace.

According to Ms Utoh, these efforts will target university students and the wider public through FCC’s regional offices, reinforcing the commission’s mission to promote fair competition and consumer protection.

World Consumer Protection Day, celebrated annually on March 15, serves as a global platform to address consumer concerns and advocate for stronger protections in an evolving marketplace.