The flood of fake and substandard electrical and electronic products into Zimbabwe are a serious risk to public safety, the economy and the reputation of the engineering profession. Poor quality imports lead to electrical fires, device failures and shortened product lifespans, putting lives and property at risk. The Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) can play a crucial role in tackling this challenge by adopting systems similar to those used successfully in countries like the United Kingdom.
In the UK, engineers stationed at ports of entry work closely with customs officials to inspect, test and verify imported electrical goods before they reach the market. This proactive approach will ensure that only certified, safe and reliable products are allowed into the country. Zimbabwe can learn from this model and adapt it to suit local needs.
Firstly, ZIE can partner with government agencies such as the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. This partnership would create a framework where ZIE and ECZ certified engineers are stationed at key entry points, such as Beitbridge, Plumtree, Chirundu, Victoria Falls, and Harare International Airport to conduct technical inspections of imported goods. Their job would be to verify compliance with national and international electrical standards.
Secondly, ZIE can help develop a detailed checklist and testing criteria based on the latest international standards, such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. This checklist would make inspections systematic, focusing on areas like product labelling, safety certifications, quality of materials, wiring standards and performance benchmarks.
Training programs would also be crucial. ZIE could organize special certification courses for engineers who will serve at the ports, equipping them with the skills to quickly spot fakes and assess product quality. Continuous professional development would ensure these engineers stay updated on evolving technologies and counterfeit methods.
Public awareness is another important area. ZIE can lead national campaigns to educate importers, retailers and consumers about the dangers of fake electronics. Workshops, adverts and social media campaigns could highlight the benefits of buying certified, high-quality products and the risks of using substandard goods.
Furthermore, ZIE could advocate for stiffer penalties against those found importing or selling fake goods. By working with Parliament and regulatory authorities, they can push for laws that not only fine offenders heavily but also allow for the destruction of seized counterfeit goods to prevent them from re-entering the market.
Lastly, ZIE can introduce a national certification label for all approved electrical and electronic products sold in Zimbabwe. Just like the British Standards (BS) mark used in the UK, a “ZIE Approved” label would assure consumers that the product meets safety and performance requirements.
ZIE and SAZ holds the key to protecting the nation from the dangers of fake electrical and electronic imports. Through active participation at ports of entry, close collaboration with government agencies, continuous training, public education and strong advocacy for better laws, ZIE and SAZ can ensure that Zimbabwe’s market is safe, reliable and ready for a modern future.
This way we can stop the importation of fake and substandard electrical and electronic products.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi