Christmas and the consumer’s dilemma

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OPINION

By Freddie K. Kiapi

Christmas in Uganda is synonymous with generosity, family gatherings, and festive spending. From food and clothing to electronics and travel, households stretch their budgets to meet expectations. Yet, this surge in consumption often exposes consumers to fraudulent practices, counterfeit goods, and exploitative pricing. Reports have consistently warned Ugandans to be vigilant during the festive season, as unscrupulous traders exploit high demand to sell substandard products or inflate prices.

Several legal frameworks in Uganda guarantee such as rights to safety, access to information, the right to choose, and the right to be heard. These rights are not seasonal; they are fundamental protections that must be emphasised during peak spending periods like Christmas. Unfortunately, many consumers remain unaware of these safeguards, leaving them vulnerable to abuse.

Uganda’s consumer protection framework is anchored in carious institutions which regulate transactions like banking, transport, medicine, insurance with a broader enforcement and making ensure there’s high levels of public safety. Act.

These agencies are tasked with ensuring transparency, safety, and accountability. However, enforcement alone is insufficient without public awareness campaigns that empower consumers to demand fair treatment.

Christmas provides a unique opportunity to amplify these campaigns. With increased advertising, online shopping, and promotional sales, consumers must be reminded to verify product authenticity, demand receipts, and report suspicious practices.

Rushed Christmas shopping in Uganda poses a serious public health challenge, as consumers often purchase substandard goods and services under pressure.

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) reports that over 50% of locally produced consumer goods, including food, drinks, and cosmetics, fail to meet quality standards, exposing families to health risks.

Globally, the World Health Organisation estimates that unsafe products and counterfeit medicines contribute to millions of preventable illnesses and deaths annually, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected.

During festive seasons, heightened demand and reduced vigilance increase vulnerability, making consumer awareness and protection critical for safeguarding health and well-being.

Consumer protection is not just about safeguarding individuals; it is integral to Uganda’s broader development agenda. The National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) emphasises inclusive growth, while Vision 2040 envisions a modern economy driven by empowered citizens. Protecting consumers during high-spending seasons like Christmas ensures that economic growth is not undermined by exploitation.

Moreover, consumer protection aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

By promoting ethical trade and consumer rights, Uganda contributes to building resilient communities that trust markets and institutions.

Uganda must expedite the long-awaited Consumer Protection Law to safeguard citizens from exploitation and unsafe products. As festive spending and election pressures rise, the Executive should urgently rethink consumer protection and public safety, ensuring accountability, fair trade, and resilience in line with national development and democratic priorities.

As Christmas approaches, Ugandan consumers must embrace a culture of vigilance.

This means checking product labels and expiry dates before purchase, demanding receipts and warranties for electronics and high-value goods; avoiding counterfeit products that compromise safety and health; reporting fraud to relevant authorities, including the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and practising responsible consumption, resisting unnecessary debt or exploitative credit schemes.

Equally, traders and businesses must uphold ethical standards. Christmas should not be an excuse for profiteering but an opportunity to build trust with consumers through fair pricing, quality assurance, and transparency.

The writer is a consumer advocate

Email: kiapikfreddie@gmail.com