“LET US QUICKLY ADDRESS THE ISSUE OF AI THROUGH FAIRNESS AND RESPONSIBIVE WAY”

“Artificial Intelligence has taken the digital world by storm and it will also have serious implications for consumers safety and digital fairness………………………” Fwoloshi

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia this year will join the rest of the world in commemorating the world consumer rights day which will fall on the 15^th of March 2024 and under the theme” Fair and Responsible AI for consumers”,

Speaking to the media in Lusaka Consumer Protection Organizing Committee Chairperson Ms. Kutemba Roselind Fwoloshi and NHIMA Membership and Contribution Manager said that Artificial Intelligence has the potential to enhance consumers ‘purchasing decision –making process by providing them with personalized recommendations based on the their preference and past behavior.

“Businesses can leverage AI to detect fraudulent activates and safeguard consumers against scams and phishing attacks,” she said.

She also stated that they is potential misuse of AI and traders may use it to manipulate consumer behavior that are not in their best interest of the consumers and its crucial for consumers to be informed of their consumer rights and traders or business outlets to be transparency in their use of AI.

“As consumers it is for us to understand what AI is, how it works and its impact on our lives in order for us harness its significance” Fwoloshi said.

She has further urged all consumers and the general public to ensure that they is transparency and accountability in AI systems and to safeguard consumer privacy and data protection in the collection, processing and use of personal information by AI technologies.

“’let us all commit ourselves to promote fair and responsible AI for the benefit of all consumers”’ she said

And CCPC Director Consumer Protection Mrs. Eunice P. Hamavhwa added that Zambia has maintained the highest bar in being part of this world Rights consumer day which has necessitated by the global call to protect consumers from unfair business practices and to have access to safe, quality goods and services,

“This day will highlight its need for various stakeholders to work together to promote consumer rights and address consumer concerns and we feel the move for Zambia to commemorate this day create  a platform for enhanced consumer awareness,” Hamavhwa said.

She said that with the drive of both the private and public sectors to digitize services in Zambia and there has been an increase in the use of advanced technology tools across all sectors of this country’s economy.