Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daniel D
Published on 2024-03-21 17:08:49
In December 2022, during an entrepreneurship competition in Limbe, a finalist was disqualified for not knowing about the Standards and Quality Agency (ANOR). His lack of knowledge raised concerns about the safety of his products, highlighting issues of consumer protection in Cameroon.
The disqualification came after a simple question from the jury about ANOR, to which the finalist responded with a “no.” This led to doubts about the safety of the products he was selling and raised questions about the young man’s business practices. It also brought attention to the widespread problem of businesses in Cameroon operating without ANOR approval.
Many Cameroonians, like the young producer in the competition, start businesses and sell products without obtaining certification from ANOR. This is a common practice in cities and villages across the country, where roadside food vendors, skincare product makers, and online weight loss product sellers operate without regulation.
The lack of ANOR approval has serious consequences, as seen in reports of unregulated products causing fatalities in Bamenda and contributing to deaths nationwide. Issues with counterfeit alcohol and substandard products from certified companies like Congelcam also highlight the challenges faced by ANOR in enforcing quality standards.
Despite efforts by ANOR to regulate products like natural mineral water, enforcement remains difficult, especially outside the capital where certification requirements are often overlooked. Calls for increased awareness and enforcement from ANOR are growing louder as uncertified products continue to pose risks to consumers.
The incident in Limbe underscores the importance of consumer protection in Cameroon and the need for comprehensive regulatory measures to ensure the safety and legitimacy of products in the market. As ANOR works to improve its oversight and enforcement, the role of consumer protection organizations in the country is also being questioned.
In light of these challenges, it is crucial for businesses in Cameroon to prioritize ANOR certification and for consumers to be aware of the risks associated with uncertified products. By working together to uphold quality standards and protect consumers, the country can create a safer and more reliable marketplace for all.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
