Staff Writer
The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers, in partnership with Proma Events Africa, has officially launched the 81-Day National Consumer & Product Integrity Roadshows, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating counterfeit and illicit trade, promoting authentic products, and strengthening consumer confidence in Zimbabwe’s marketplace.
The initiative was unveiled during a high-level press conference held at the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles, attended by Government officials, industry leaders, financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and members of the media.
The Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Raj Modi, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to protecting local industry, strengthening product standards, and ensuring fair competition in the market.
The Ministry formally endorsed the initiative and confirmed that it will work closely with organisers throughout the roadshows and towards the national summit to advance product integrity, industrial protection, and consumer awareness.
Representing the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Commissioner Paul Nyathi emphasized the importance of strong partnerships and coordinated enforcement efforts to dismantle counterfeit and illicit trade networks. Similar sentiments were echoed by Zororo Muranda of the Consumer Protection Commission.
Beyond enforcement and awareness, the roadshows will also serve as a strategic marketing and consumer engagement platform for manufacturers.
Participating companies will showcase authentic products, educate consumers on how to identify genuine goods, demonstrate quality assurance standards, and reinforce brand trust directly within communities.
The 81-day programme will roll out provincial roadshows and stakeholder breakfast meetings across the country, bringing together manufacturers, retailers, financial institutions, local authorities, and consumers.
This direct interface between producers and the public is designed to strengthen market transparency while promoting responsible purchasing behaviour.
Counterfeit goods — unauthorized imitations intended to deceive consumers — undermine legitimate businesses, reduce tax revenues, threaten jobs, and compromise consumer safety. The initiative therefore seeks to move beyond reactive enforcement toward proactive collaboration, prevention, and brand empowerment.
The programme will culminate in the National Consumer & Product Integrity Summit & Product Expo, where outcomes from provincial engagements will be consolidated and compliant brands showcased nationally.
His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, is expected to deliver the keynote address, underscoring the national importance of protecting industry, consumers, and economic integrity.
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