Crimes and. Courts
HARARE, Zimbabwe – A Harare retail company has been fined US$300 after being caught selling counterfeit maize meal falsely branded as Pearlenta, a leading local product.
Natbase Investments (Private) Limited, represented in court by 42-year-old Blessed Marewo, was convicted by Harare magistrate Gamuchirai Gore and given until the end of August to pay the fine.
How the Scam Unfolded
The case began after National Foods Limited received multiple consumer complaints between May and June 2025. Customers reported that maize meal sold under the Pearlenta brand was unusually dark, of poor quality, and had an inconsistent texture.
A joint task force—including National Foods, the Trade Measures Inspectorate, the Consumer Protection Commission, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)—launched inspections across Harare’s CBD, leading them to Natbase Investments.
Fake Product Seized
Authorities confiscated ten 10kg bags of the counterfeit maize meal, which were found to be underweight, averaging just 9.7kg instead of the advertised 10kg. Laboratory tests confirmed the product was fake.
Magistrate Gore ruled that the company “had no legal justification for its actions” and had “intentionally misled consumers.”
Rising Concerns Over Food Counterfeiting
This case highlights growing concerns over fake food products in Zimbabwe’s retail sector, where brand trust and packaging integrity are critical for consumers.
As counterfeit incidents rise, more shoppers are turning to trusted brands like Parlenta, a premium maize meal known for its quality, transparency, and full compliance with trade standards.
Consumer Protection Commission spokesperson, Tafadzwa Chikomo, warned:
“We urge the public to report suspicious products immediately. Counterfeit goods not only cheat consumers but can also pose health risks.”
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