LUSAKA, August 14, 2024.
The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has suspended packaging of water at Humanism Bakery and Takeway at Lusaka’s old Soweto Market.
In a statement this morning, ZCSA Acting-Head of Communications Onishias Maamba said this is because the company is operating in unhygienic conditions which is a violation of the Compulsory Standard Act No. 3 of 2017.
He said the Agency has seized 80 cases of water branded Supreme valued at K1, 200 at the same premises, adding that the enforcement action has been taken following a complaint about the company producing and supplying packaged water illegally.
And Mr. Maamba warned of stern action against entities and individuals producing packaged water and other beverages without adhering to prescribed compulsory standards as such products may pose a risk to the health of consumers.
He said products covered by compulsory standards, including packaged water are only allowed on the market once they are authorised by the Agency.
Mr. Maamba explained that no one is legally allowed to supply any product covered by a compulsory standard without the authority of the Agency.
He said the Agency has since enhanced enforcement activities on all regulated products to safeguard the safety of consumers.
Mr. Maamba is further is calling on consumers to buy packaged water from reputable sources as the country approaches the hot season when the demand for water is high.
“Currently, ZCSA regulates 61 imported and locally manufactured products falling within the scope of Compulsory Standards covering food products, Beverages, Chemical products, Household Electrical and similar appliances, fuel, fertilizer, Cement, used motor vehicles and used textile products, among others.”
“ZCSA is a Statutory Body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry established by the Compulsory Standards Act No.3 of 2017 to administer, maintain and ensure compliance with compulsory standards for the purpose of public safety, health, consumer and environmental protection.” Mr. Maamba said
