What are the roles and contributions of consumer associations?
Consumers need to join and support consumer associations because a consumer association has an important role to play and contributions to make. The 5 roles and contributions identified are5: Role 1: Community Development Centre Consumer associations are in fact associations for community development. They provide community development services, ensuring “goods, services and gifts of nature” are utilised for the “common good” of all. They also educate and create awareness amongst consumers to play their role in a responsible manner. Role 2: Community Advisory and Support Centre Consumer associations play an important role in providing advice to consumers and helping them in time of need to seek redress and a fair deal in the market place. Such a watchdog and support role keeps things checked and under control. Role 3: Community Information Centre Another role and function of consumer associations is to conduct research, gather information and disseminate such information to consumers.
