“ZCSA Cracks Down on Water Suppliers”
… Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency intensifies efforts to ensure water suppliers meet regulatory requirements
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia – (14-08-2024) – In a decisive move against non-compliant water suppliers, the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has not only seized 80 cases of water sachets, valued at K1,200, from Humanism Bakery and Takeaway, located at Lusaka’s Old Soweto Market but also suspended the bakery’s packaging operations after discovering unhygienic conditions that violated the Compulsory Standard Act No. 3 of 2017.
ZCSA Acting Head of Communications, Onishias Maamba, explained that the enforcement action followed a consumer complaint regarding Humanism Bakery’s illegal production and supply of packaged water.
“We have taken immediate action to suspend the packaging of water at Humanism Bakery and Takeaway because the company was operating under unhygienic conditions. This is a direct violation of the Compulsory Standard Act No. 3 of 2017,” Maamba said.
He further emphasized that such lapses in standards pose significant health risks to consumers.
“The Agency will not hesitate to take stern action against entities and individuals who produce packaged water and other beverages without adhering to prescribed compulsory standards. These products may pose a serious risk to the health of consumers,” he warned.
As Zambia enters the hot season, Maamba urged consumers to be cautious when purchasing water.
“We are calling on consumers to buy packaged water from reputable sources, especially as the country approaches the hot season when the demand for water is high,” he said, stressing the importance of ensuring that the water they consume meets safety standards.
The ZCSA is mandated to regulate 61 products, including food and beverages, chemicals, household electrical appliances, fuel, fertilizer, cement, used motor vehicles, and textiles. Packaged water is among the products covered by compulsory standards, and Maamba reiterated that only products authorized by the agency should be on the market.
“Packaged water, like all products covered by compulsory standards, is only allowed on the market once it has been authorized by the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency. This is to ensure that all products available to consumers meet health and safety requirements,” Maamba explained.
The seizure of non-compliant water sachets highlights a broader issue of businesses sidestepping regulatory requirements in Zambia. Companies like Humanism Bakery, which bypass health and safety standards, jeopardize public health, particularly during times of heightened demand.
The ZCSA’s enforcement actions, therefore, serve as a critical measure in protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of Zambia’s food and beverage market.
As Zambia’s water demands increase during the hotter months, ZCSA’s actions are likely to prompt more businesses to comply with standards or face similar repercussions.
“The agency’s continued vigilance is essential to prevent further incidents of non-compliance, ensuring that only safe and healthy products reach Zambian consumers,” Maamba concluded.
