Traders and residents at Musoma’s centrol market are urging the Fair Competition Commission (FCC) to strengthen inspections and consumer education to tackle the growing menace of counterfeit products.
The call came after FCC officers, Mgasi Kalindimya and Thomas Maisory, visited the market to educate traders on identifying counterfeit goods and understanding consumer credit contracts, which often have one-sided terms set by lenders.
The officers emphasized the importance of verifying products before purchase or sale to protect consumers’ health and understanding the terms of loans. The FCC continues to educate businesses across the region to prevent the sale of counterfeit items that pose serious health risks.
Speaking to GMTV, Jane Maginga, a trader from Mwisenge, said counterfeit products are becoming widespread.
“Fake medicines, oral hygiene products, cosmetics, and food are causing more illnesses. The government must act impartially to remove them and protect citizens, as cases of cancer and kidney disease are rising,” she said.
Maginga added that many people use products without knowing their potential health effects and rarely carry out regular health checks. “Regular product inspections are crucial to safeguard consumers,” she added.
Mgasi Kalindimya highlighted consumer rights, including access to essential goods, safety, information, the right to be heard, freedom of choice, complaint resolution, and environmental protection.
Thomas Maisory reminded consumers of their responsibilities, such as asking questions about prices and quality, reading instructions carefully, and using products safely.
He also stressed the importance of filing complaints, rejecting substandard goods, and reducing environmental harm.
Traders and consumers in Musoma are now calling for sustained FCC efforts to ensure safer markets and healthier communities.
