Govt to set up consumer protection body next year

Consumers and groups advocating for the rights of buyers of goods and services have reason to smile following announcement by government of plans to set up a new body to monitor the implementation of consumer-related trade laws, and standards. The Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Agency (RICA) will start operations next year, according to Francois Kanimba, the Minister for Trade and Industry and EAC Affairs. François Kanimba Discussions on the formation of Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Agency started way back, with government initially pledging to set it up in 2014. Kanimba said consumers still face challenges, including unjustified high commodity prices and loopholes in the implementation of laws that protect their rights, but was optimistic the body will help uphold consumer protection rights. “Currently, consumer rights are often violated. That’s why we need to discuss and come up with solutions that will address the situation, ensuring that people are not exposed to risky materials or abusive practices by businesses and service providers,” he said. The minister was last week speaking at a workshop on consumer protection that brought together 60 stakeholders, including government officials, legal practitioners, insurers and consumers rights bodies. It was organised by Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD). “The institution will deal with consumer rights across all sectors. We are hopeful it will help address all the current challenges faced by consumers and to take on unscrupulous business owners,” Kanimba said. Aimable Havugiyaremye, the Rector of Institute of Legal Practice and Development, called for more consumer rights awareness to ensure buyers know their rights and commercial laws. “Consumers should know their rights to reject violations though there are a number of laws to protect consumers, people do not know.” Damien Ndizeye, from Defence of Consumer Rights of Rwanda (ADECOR), was hopeful the new body will also promote cross-border trade by ensuring the standards of imported products.

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Govt to set up consumer protection body next year