Rwanda Food and Drug Authority (FDA) has launched a three-month awareness campaign dubbed BANZA UREBE, which aims at igniting a nationwide movement for the fight against illicit drugs, expired products, and illegally manufactured beverages on the local market.  

Overall, it aims to ensure that Rwandans consume food and drugs that are safe and secure which are part of its mandate to protect the public health of the population.

Speaking during the launch, Martine UMUHOZA, the Deputy Director General of Rwanda FDA, urged Rwandans to always be vigilant consumers by checking expiration dates and scrutinizing product labels, and alert Rwanda FDA about any expired products, or illegally manufactured beverages on the local market to safeguard their health and well-being.

“We advise consumers to be vigilant by checking expiration dates and products labels, even alert us, but we also welcome products manufacturers and retailers to seek help from us, so that to produce standardized products”, she added.

The campaign entails various engagements with the public through radio, TV and several social media channels.

To facilitate the reporting process, the Rwanda FDA developed a dedicated helpline, such as 9707, and a WhatsApp chat number +250788457545, manned by a team of trained professionals, ready to receive calls and respond swiftly to every complaint.

The customer support electronic tool has also been created where all clients can submit their claims and complaints.