Section 9: Consumer Rights, Protection and Responsibilities (Social Studies Year 1)

Flashcards covering key concepts, rights, and institutions related to consumer protection in Ghana as presented in the notes.

Who is a consumer?

A person who buys or uses goods and services to satisfy their needs and wants, with the freedom to choose.

Name the nine consumer rights discussed in the notes.

Right to Safety; Right to Be Informed; Right to Choose; Right to Redress; Right to Be Heard; Right to Privacy; Right to Fair Treatment; Right to Consumer Education; Right to a Healthy Environment.

What is consumer protection?

Measures and laws that safeguard the rights and interests of consumers and ensure fair treatment.

Why are consumer protection laws important?

They prevent dangerous or unethical business practices and help maintain a reliable, fair market.

What is the role of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in Ghana?

To ensure food and medicines are safe and effective; approve new products before sale; inspect factories, shops and pharmacies; educate the public.

What does the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) do?

Ensures products meet standards, conducts testing, issues certification, and can recall substandard goods.

What is the function of the Competition and Fair-Trading Commission?

To promote fair competition and prevent anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing and false advertising.

What is the Advertising Standards Board responsible for?

Monitoring and enforcing truthful and non-misleading advertising in Ghana.

What is the Consumer Protection Act (Act 850) in Ghana?

A legal framework that outlines consumer rights and the procedures for redress when rights are violated.

Describe the Right to Redress.

The right to a refund, replacement, or repair when a product is faulty or not as described (usually within a warranty).

Describe the Right to Be Heard.

The right to voice complaints about a product or service and have the issue addressed by the seller or provider.

Describe the Right to Be Informed.

The right to know what you are buying, including ingredients, how it works, risks, and expiration dates.

Describe the Right to Safety.

The right to be protected from products that might be harmful; products should be safe to use with clear instructions and warnings.

Describe the Right to Privacy.

The right to keep personal information safe and not have it shared without permission.

Describe the Right to Fair Treatment.

The right to be treated fairly, not subjected to unfair tricks or coercive sales; honesty and respect from businesses.

Describe the Right to Consumer Education.

The right to learn about consumer rights and responsibilities to make informed choices.

Describe the Right to a Healthy Environment.

The right to live and work in a healthy environment; companies should not pollute; products should be environmentally friendly.

In the Atsu case, which consumer right did he exercise?

Right to Redress (he was offered a replacement or refund for a defective toy).