MBOMBELA- The National Consumer Commission (NCC) recently collaborated with the Competition Commission of South Africa, the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and various regulatory bodies under the Consumer Protection Forum (CPF) to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD 2025).
The event, held on Friday, March 14 at the University of Mpumalanga aimed to promote consumer awareness and empowerment, encouraging businesses to adopt ethical practices.
This year’s commemoration, themed “Empowering Consumers—Balancing Rights with Ethical Business Practices,” focused on interactive engagement with businesses and consumers.
As such, the NCC joined forces with fellow regulatory bodies to host a week-long program of activities across the province, leading up to WCRD 2025. These activities included exhibitions, store inspections, and the relaunch of the Mpumalanga Provincial Consumer Court, providing consumers with access to effective redress.
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In her keynote address, MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Makhosazane Masilela emphasised the importance of empowering consumers through information about their rights. “As we celebrate this significant day, we’re reminded of the central role consumers play in our economy and the critical need to protect their rights, encouraging businesses to operate ethically, responsibly, and with integrity,” she said.
Masilela stressed that businesses must establish a culture of fairness, respect, and responsibility, going above and beyond the bare minimum of legal requirements.
Acting Commissioner of the NCC Hardin Ratshisusu highlighted the issue of non-compliant goods in South Africa’s consumer protection space, citing recent inspections that revealed expired food items in local spaza shops.
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Ratshisusu further emphasised the importance of continued efforts to address this issue, particularly in light of recent foodborne illnesses affecting vulnerable consumers, including children. “It’s crucial we continue this work to protect our children,” he implored.
The commemoration of WCRD 2025 serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empowering consumers and promoting ethical business practices. As the NCC and its partners continue to work tirelessly to protect consumers’ rights, it’s clear that there’s still much work to be done.
