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CRAN stamps its authority

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) last week launched its second consumer campaign under the theme “The Consumer King”. CRAN said this week, during the campaign, consumers will be informed about their rights and responsibilities.
“The Consumer is King campaign sees every consumer as a king and queen. At every point  within the campaign, CRAN will honour the consumers. CRAN wants consumers to feel empowered to enact change and constantly be informed of development within the ICT sector” said Morna Ikosa, Acting Head: Communications and External Relations.
Further elements of the campaign will educate consumers on mobile phone etiquette, usage and protection; and create awareness around Internet security and usage.

“Due to high complaints regarding incorrect billing, slow broadband speed, handset repairs, excessive data roaming, and other mobile issues such as sim card hacking, sexting, and purchasing of counterfeit phones, CRAN decided to focus on educating consumers on how to understand the terms and conditions they sign when purchasing a phone or a service, and mobile phone etiquette and internet usage, especially for children. The focus on mobile phones is in line with the 2014 World Consumer Day theme titled: Fix your Phone Rights,” said Ikosa.
The campaign will focus on four phases to commencing with the consumer has rights and responsibilities.
This phase will clearly outline the rights and responsibilities that consumers have. Much emphasis is also put on the consumer’s right, but a consumer also needs to realize the he/she has a responsibility in ensuring that he/she is informed, educated and empowered to make the right decision.
More people in Africa have access to a mobile phone than clean water. In 2013 it was estimated that 6.8 billion people owned a mobile phone. In 2011 that figure was 6 billion and in 2010 it was 5.4 billion. Mobile phones serve as the centre of all social networks, offering convenience, and at the same time, transforming from just being telephone to mini computer, which gives access to information and services that are critical to empowering consumers on their livelihoods and health.

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