By Charles Mkoka
Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania — The Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) has signed a three-year
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory
Authority Consumer Consultative Council (TCRA-CCC) aimed at bolstering consumer
protection and rights within Tanzania’s communication sector.
At a press
briefing held at FCS headquarters, Ms. Mary Shao Msuya, Communication Officer
for FCS, underscored the critical importance of this collaboration. "This
partnership recognizes the necessity of safeguarding consumers against unfair
trade practices in the marketplace," Ms. Msuya stated.
She emphasized
that businesses adhering to consumer protection policies not only foster a
positive reputation but also gain a competitive edge. "Companies that
prioritize their customers' well-being are more sought after in the
marketplace, driving economic growth," she added. Ms. Msuya highlighted
the issue of consumers purchasing high-end mobile phones but using them for
basic functions, stressing the need for sustainable consumption.
The MoU
underscores a shared commitment to empowering consumers and promoting fair
market practices. Both FCS and TCRA-CCC aim to create a more informed and
protected consumer environment in Tanzania.
FCS Executive
Director, Justice Rutenge, highlighted the significance of civil society
organizations (CSOs) in strengthening consumer protection mechanisms.
"Over the years, FCS has maintained a citizen-centered approach to
development, focusing on enhancing citizen agency. Our commitment to consumer
protection stems from this foundational concept," he stated. "As FCS
works in the consumer protection space, we seek to cultivate an effective
framework driven by active civil society engagement."
Mr. Rutenge
further outlined the rights consumers are entitled to, including fair
settlements for claims, education and empowerment about products and services,
and quality assurance for goods and services. "Our partnership with
TCRA-CCC will leverage our expertise in capacity building to enhance TCRA-CCC's
ability to implement initiatives geared towards advancing consumer protection
and rights."
On her part, TCRA-CCC Executive Secretary Ms. Mary Shao Msuya emphasized the Council’s role in safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers in the ICT, broadcasting, and postal services sectors. "Consumers have the right to access regulated communication services at reasonable prices, receive transparent information for informed decision-making, and be protected against deceptive advertising practices," she stated.
Ms. Msuya
praised the MoU, noting that the collaboration would enhance consumer
protection mechanisms. "Working together, we will ensure robust protection
for customers, allowing them to choose from a variety of products and services
that meet their needs, with the assurance of safety and quality," she
affirmed. "Our collaboration with FCS underscores our commitment to safeguarding
consumer interests and ensuring a fair and transparent marketplace."
The partnership
aims to foster a conducive environment for consumer rights, showcasing
collective efforts in promoting equitable trade practices and empowering
consumers with knowledge about their rights and avenues for recourse. This
initiative is supported by a grant from the Foreign, Commonwealth &
Development Office (FCDO), Ireland, and Norway.
Established in
2002, the Foundation for Civil Society has become a prominent source of funding
for small and medium-sized Tanzanian CSOs and is recognized as one of the most
credible civil society institutions in Africa.
TCRA-CCC serves
as a consultative body representing consumers of communication services in
Tanzania, advocating for consumer rights and promoting fair practices within
the communication industry.
