By Jane Chanda
The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) says the agency has seized 1,444 non-compliant electrical products in Lusaka valued at K45,451.50, with electrical fittings and connections having the highest percentage of non-compliances at 83 percent.
In a statement yesterday, ZCSA communications and public relations acting manager Brian Hatyoka revealed that the agency had restricted 651 non-compliant assorted products in Lusaka valued at K236,720, which, combined with the previously seized non-compliant electrical products, bringing the total value of non-compliant products to about K282,171.
He stated that the enforcement was part of the ongoing national Open Market Surveillance inspections, which was carried out in Lusaka’s Town Centre, Soweto market and Intercity Bus Terminus from November 11 to 15, this year.
“The exercise covered imported and locally manufactured products covered by compulsory standards,” he stated.
Hatyoka disclosed that the overall level of compliance in Lusaka stood at 82 percent, covering 145 manufacturers, 216 brands, and 51 trading outlets.
He also cautioned that the agency would take stern action against traders who were illegally supplying non-compliant products on the Zambian market.
“ZCSA will continue conducting enforcement activities in Lusaka and other parts of Zambia in a bid to ensure that only safe products are allowed on the market,” Hatyoka stated.
He added that non-compliant products being seized and withdrawn from the market were being destroyed in line with Section 16 4 (a) and (b) of the Compulsory Standards Act, in a bid to protect consumers and the environment.
“Non-compliant products pose a significant risk to public health and safety, and it is our duty to ensure that such products are removed from the market,” stated Hatyoka.
