CUTS Stories

In recent years, Zambia has witnessed the rapid growth of informal moneylenders, commonly referred to as loan shacks. While they provide quick access to cash for individuals who are excluded from the formal banking sector, their operations have become highly exploitative. Many Zambian consumers now find themselves trapped in cycles of debt, paying back far […]

In recent weeks, the Zambian Kwacha has recorded significant gains against major convertible currencies such as the US dollar, British pound, and Euro. This development has been welcomed by policymakers and market observers, as a stronger local currency often suggests improved economic stability, increased investor confidence, and potentially lower costs for imported goods. However, while

To ensure that consumers tangibly benefit from the positive performance of the local currency, the Zambian Government must adopt a coordinated, multi-pronged strategy that promotes transparency, fair pricing, and market accountability. Despite recent improvements in the Kwacha’s exchange rate, many consumers have yet to see a corresponding reduction in the cost of essential goods and

1. Introduction The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Zambia Agribusiness and Trade Project II (ZATP II), successfully commemorated the 2025 World Food Safety Day on 11th July 2025 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. The event was held under the global theme “Food Safety – Science in Action,” which emphasized the

Geneva, Switzerland — The 9th United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection, during its third session, spotlighted global efforts to implement the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection. Countries shared case studies and innovations tackling rising consumer challenges, especially in digital markets. Panellists emphasized the need for robust digital protections, citing the EU’s upcoming Digital

Geneva, Switzerland — The 9th United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection opened with a powerful plenary session celebrating 45 years of the UN Set of Principles on Competition and 40 years of the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection. Amid global instability, leaders reaffirmed the critical role of fair markets in fostering inclusive and

Geneva — The second session of the 9th United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection spotlighted key global advances in competition law and policy, while marking 20 years of UNCTAD’s Voluntary Peer Reviews (VPRs). The session revealed explosive growth in competition law adoption, now present in 140 countries—up from just 25 when the UN

The purpose of the advocacy dialogue breakfast meeting with key ministries was to explore strategic avenues through which government institutions can demonstrate stronger commitment to improving food safety within the fruits and vegetables value chain. This engagement served as a platform to raise awareness about the critical food safety challenges faced by consumers, particularly related

In Zambia’s urban areas, where the demand for digital communication is at its peak, poor mobile voice and internet service quality has become a growing concern for consumers. Cities like Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, and Livingstone may be seen as hubs of connectivity, but the reality on the ground tells a different story. Urban consumers face

Effective April 1, 2025, MultiChoice will increase its subscription fees, a move that has raised concern among consumers already struggling with economic hardships. The decision comes at a time when many households are grappling with the rising cost of living, frequent load shedding, and declining content quality. The rising prices of essential goods such as