By Tijan S. Touray
The Consumer Protection Consortium, in partnership with the Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC), The Gambia Standards Bureau (TGSB), and the Public Utilities and Regulatory Authority (PURA), celebrated World Consumer Rights Day on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the ActionAid office on MDI Road, Kanifing.
World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) is observed globally each year on March 15th to raise awareness about consumer rights and promote the protection of consumers across various sectors.
This year’s theme, Transition to a Sustainable Lifestyle, underscores the importance of adopting sustainable living practices that facilitate environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic stability.
The celebration engaged stakeholders, fostered collaboration, and inspired action toward sustainable consumption and enhanced consumer protection in The Gambia.
During a press conference, Alpha Jallow, the president of the Consumer Protection Consortium, highlighted that the theme resonates with the challenges and opportunities The Gambia faces in its pursuit of sustainable development and equitable growth.
He articulated the core objectives of World Consumer Rights Day, particularly the need to educate consumers in The Gambia about their rights and responsibilities, regarding sustainable consumption.
Jallow emphasized the vital role that sustainable lifestyles play in consumer protection, advocating for a collective approach involving government, businesses, civil society organizations, and consumers to foster a transition to sustainable living. He also stressed the importance of collaboration among government agencies, consumer protection bodies, and businesses to create a sustainable and consumer-friendly environment.
Despite the environmental challenges facing the country, Jallow asserted that a “just transition” is essential, ensuring that sustainability efforts include and uplift vulnerable and marginalized groups. He pointed out that like many other nations, The Gambia grapples with balancing economic development and environmental sustainability.
“Rising consumerism, limited awareness of sustainable practices and weak consumer protection mechanisms have intensified issues like waste management and climate change impacts,” he noted.
“While The Gambia has made commendable strides toward sustainability—such as the ban on single-use plastics and the promotion of renewable energy—much remains to be done to convert these efforts into tangible benefits for all Gambians.”
Jallow also addressed challenges such as the lack of awareness surrounding sustainable practices, the inaccessibility of affordable sustainable products and services for low-income households, and the inadequate enforcement of consumer protection regulations. He underscored that marginalized groups, including women, youth, and rural communities, are disproportionately affected and often excluded from decision-making processes.
Jallow commended partners for their valuable financial and technical support in organizing the event.
Isatou A. Ceesay, a representative of the Director General at The Gambia Standards Bureau, stated that consumer welfare is central to the bureau’s mission, with consumer representation integrated into their decision-making processes. She emphasized the significance of involving consumers in technical committees that develop standards, reinforcing the bureau’s commitment to celebrating World Consumer Rights Day.
On the theme “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles,” Ceesay noted the necessity for both consumers and producers to adopt sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices that are accessible and affordable.
Madam Ceesay elaborated on the role of standards in promoting fairness, transparency, and sustainability within the marketplace, asserting that they empower both individuals and businesses to embrace sustainable practices.
The Gambia Standards Bureau has developed standards across multiple sectors, complemented by assessment mechanisms ensuring quality assurance and enabling consumers to make health-conscious choices. Ceesay encouraged all participants to spread awareness and educate others about this year’s theme.
Alagie Sambou, a director at the GCCPC, highlighted the commission’s commitment to promoting sustainable consumer behavior in The Gambia. He emphasized the need to provide consumers with access to affordable, eco-friendly products, educate them about their rights and sustainable living, and inspire proactive steps toward responsible consumption.
Sambou called on all citizens to join the global movement by adopting more sustainable consumer behaviors. He also acknowledged the need for a clear and accessible redress mechanism for consumers affected by unsafe products or unfair treatment. He concluded by advocating for increased collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, as well as regional and international bodies, to empower vulnerable consumers.