Unsafe Goods: NPA and CZSA Team Up to Jail Offenders
The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) and the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) have agreed to work together in prosecuting suppliers of substandard products in a move aimed at strengthening consumer protection and safeguarding public health and the environment.
The two institutions are expected to formalise their cooperation later this year through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will guide joint efforts in enforcing compulsory standards and ensuring offenders are brought to justice.
Speaking in Lusaka when ZCSA Executive Director Gerald Chizinga paid a courtesy call on him, Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Andford Phiri, State Counsel, said stronger enforcement through prosecution would help deter offenders.
Mr Phiri stressed the need for visible consequences for those who manufacture, import or supply substandard goods, saying such cases should serve as an example to others.
“How do you explain a situation where some people sell diesel mixed with water? You cannot manufacture or supply substandard products and go unpunished,” he said. “We must correct this through enhanced prosecution.”
He added that the NPA is ready to work closely with ZCSA, including supporting plans to train prosecutors on compulsory standards to improve enforcement.
Mr Phiri also said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving service delivery and protecting the interests of Zambians.
Earlier, Mr Chizinga expressed concern over the presence of non-compliant products on the market, warning that they pose risks to public safety, health, and the environment.
He said weak enforcement has made it difficult to fully achieve the objectives of the Compulsory Standards Act, adding that stronger collaboration with the NPA would enhance compliance.
“Our enforcement work can only succeed if it is supported by prosecution. People must understand their obligations and face consequences for supplying non-compliant products,” he said.
ZCSA Board Secretary and Director of Legal and Compliance, Tafuna Mumba Phiri, said training prosecutors in compulsory standards would be a key part of the planned collaboration.
NPA Chief State Advocate Nkumbiza Thelma Mumba supported the initiative, noting that tougher penalties are needed to deter offenders. She also cited past cases involving substandard shoes and alcoholic beverages.
ZCSA, under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, is mandated to ensure compliance with compulsory standards aimed at protecting public safety, health, consumers, and the environment.
