Transforming SL Economy Lawrence Bassie Leads Consumer Protection Efforts

In a significant stride towards ensuring consumer rights and product quality in Sierra Leone, Lawrence Bassie, the National Executive Officer of the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transforming the consumer landscape in the country. During the weekly press briefing hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on August 20, 2024, Bassie outlined the critical role that the NCPC plays in the broader context of Sierra Leone’s economic development, emphasizing that the well-being of consumers is central to achieving sustainable growth.

Lawrence Bassie opened his address by highlighting the NCPC as a key initiative under President Bio’s administration, directly linked to the national Human Capital Development agenda. He articulated that without strong consumer protection, the economy cannot thrive, as unchecked unfair trade practices and substandard products would inevitably undermine public trust and economic stability.

“Consumer protection is not just about safeguarding individuals; it’s about building the foundation for a thriving economy,” Bassie stated. He explained that the NCPC’s mission is deeply intertwined with economic policy, as protecting consumers from fraudulent practices and poor-quality products is essential for fostering a healthy market environment that benefits both businesses and consumers.

The NCPC was formally established by the Consumer Protection Act of 2020, which Bassie described as a landmark piece of legislation. The Act, particularly Section 3, Subsection 1, created the commission as a corporate entity with the authority to monitor consumer markets, address unfair trade practices, and enforce consumer protection laws. Since its inception in 2022, the NCPC has worked diligently to execute its mandate, despite being a relatively new entity.

Bassie detailed the commission’s responsibilities, which include monitoring markets for unfair practices such as false advertising, price gouging, and the sale of expired or substandard products. The NCPC is also tasked with educating consumers about their rights, ensuring they are aware of the protections available to them under the law. This educational component is crucial, as an informed consumer base is better equipped to demand quality and fair treatment, driving overall market improvement.

One of the NCPC’s early successes, as reported by Bassie, was the interception of a truck carrying substandard building materials destined for the Sierra Leonean market. This operation demonstrated the NCPC’s proactive approach to consumer protection, as the commission not only identified the threat but also took swift action to prevent the materials from reaching consumers. This incident underscores the commission’s vigilance and commitment to maintaining high standards in the marketplace.

In addition to addressing construction materials, the NCPC has conducted rigorous inspections of supermarkets and retail outlets, focusing on the removal of expired products from shelves. These spot checks are part of a broader strategy to ensure that all consumable goods meet safety and quality standards before they reach the public. Bassie emphasized that such actions are vital for protecting consumers from health hazards and ensuring that businesses adhere to ethical practices.

Bassie also addressed a growing concern in Sierra Leone—the use of substandard materials in construction. He highlighted the NCPC’s efforts to collaborate with technical experts, including engineers, who have the expertise to assess the quality of building materials. By ensuring that only materials meeting strict quality standards are used in construction, the NCPC aims to prevent building collapses and other structural failures that pose significant risks to public safety.

“Technical oversight is essential in construction. Engineers must be involved in the inspection process to ensure that only the best materials are used. This is not just about consumer protection; it’s about safeguarding lives,” Bassie remarked, underscoring the broader implications of the commission’s work.

In his briefing, Bassie was particularly keen to highlight the rights of consumers in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that the NCPC is dedicated to ensuring that these rights are respected and upheld. He pointed out that consumers have the right to return defective products, such as electronic devices, within 30 days of purchase. This right extends to various types of goods and services, including those provided by restaurants and other hospitality businesses.

Bassie urged consumers to be vigilant and proactive in reporting any issues to the NCPC, whether they involve defective products, misleading advertising, or substandard services. He reassured the public that the commission is fully equipped to handle complaints and take appropriate action to resolve disputes, ensuring that businesses are held accountable for their practices.

Looking ahead, Bassie outlined the NCPC’s future plans, which include expanding its monitoring capabilities, enhancing consumer education programs, and strengthening enforcement mechanisms. He reiterated the commission’s commitment to creating a consumer-centric economy in Sierra Leone, where businesses thrive by adhering to high standards and consumers are confident in the quality and safety of the products they purchase.

Bassie also hinted at potential collaborations with international consumer protection agencies and organizations to bring global best practices to Sierra Leone. Such partnerships could provide valuable resources and expertise, further bolstering the NCPC’s efforts to protect consumers and promote economic growth.

Under Lawrence Bassie’s leadership, the NCPC is poised to become a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s economic and social development. By enforcing consumer protection laws, educating the public, and taking decisive action against unfair practices, the commission is helping to create a safer, more reliable marketplace for all Sierra Leoneans. As the NCPC continues to evolve and expand its reach, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of consumer rights and economic stability in the country.