A trade group leader says shoppers need better education about their rights across eastern and southern Africa. Willard Mwemba runs the COMESA Competition Commission and spoke at a meeting held across several countries. The Lagos gathering brought together people who make rules for businesses and markets. Smart shoppers help make sure companies compete fairly with each other. Mwemba believes customers who know their rights can fight back against unfair business practices.
The commission plans to change its rules to protect consumers more directly. Right around 21 countries have different laws about protecting shoppers from bad business deals. These mixed-up rules make it hard for officials to punish companies that cheat customers. Mwemba wants all countries to use similar laws that work better together. Having the same rules would help catch businesses that take advantage of people.
The commission thinks stronger shopper protections will help people trust businesses across country borders. Mwemba promised his group will keep working to change policies that help everyday people. He says protecting consumers helps the whole region grow economically and work together better. Fair markets depend on having customers who understand what companies should and should not do. The leader believes consumer welfare should be the main focus of competition laws throughout Africa.
The commission plans to change its rules to protect consumers more directly. Right around 21 countries have different laws about protecting shoppers from bad business deals. These mixed-up rules make it hard for officials to punish companies that cheat customers. Mwemba wants all countries to use similar laws that work better together. Having the same rules would help catch businesses that take advantage of people.
The commission thinks stronger shopper protections will help people trust businesses across country borders. Mwemba promised his group will keep working to change policies that help everyday people. He says protecting consumers helps the whole region grow economically and work together better. Fair markets depend on having customers who understand what companies should and should not do. The leader believes consumer welfare should be the main focus of competition laws throughout Africa.
