By Charles Mkoka
The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority Consumer Consultative Council (EWURA CCC) is using the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba 2026) to educate the public on consumer rights, safety, and responsible use of electricity, water, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Speaking at the exhibition, EWURA CCC Senior Consumer Affairs Officer Lugiko L Lugiko said the council's participation aims to equip consumers with accurate information to help them make informed decisions and better understand their rights and obligations when using regulated utility services.
He said the council provides consumer education covering the electricity, petroleum, natural gas and water supply and sanitation sectors.
"We believe an informed consumer is an empowered consumer. Our role is to ensure consumers understand the services they receive, their rights and the responsibilities they have when using energy and water services," Lugiko said.
He urged electricity users to ensure that all electrical installations are carried out by EWURA-licensed technicians, saying qualified installers help guarantee safe, compliant connections while reducing the risk of energy losses and electrical hazards.
Lugiko also encouraged consumers to use quality electrical appliances and have household electrical installations inspected every five years, warning that faulty wiring or substandard equipment can increase electricity consumption, damage appliances and pose safety risks.
On water services, he advised consumers experiencing unusually high bills to first verify their meter readings and inspect their premises for hidden leaks before lodging complaints with water utilities.
"Many consumers assume high bills result from incorrect billing, yet in some cases the problem is internal leaks or failure to verify meter readings," he said.
Lugiko also called for greater attention to LPG safety, advising consumers to transport gas cylinders upright and store them in well-ventilated areas to minimise the risk of gas leaks.
He said the council will continue expanding consumer awareness campaigns to help the public access reliable information and use regulated utility services safely and efficiently.
