Welcome to the Divisions page of the National Consumer Commission website. Read our FAQs to learn more. Alternatively, Contact Us if you require any other information about the Divisions of the NCC.
The Division oversees compliance within the NCC, to ensure that financial and operational procedures comply with all relevant and applicable laws, regulations, and contractual agreements.
Through the Division, the Commission ensures compliance, risk management, internal, and external audits. The Office of the Commissioner facilitates policy changes by advising the Minister on matters relating to consumer protection.
The Division provides legal advice to the NCC and consumers and refers matters to the National Consumer Tribunal for adjudication. It is responsible for the processes leading to the accreditation of industry codes and advocacy groups and monitors the functioning of Ombud schemes established in terms of the CPA.
The Division also contributes to the development/amendment of Consumer Protection legislation and practices.
The ICT Unit is responsible for enabling the organisation's strategic goals by driving digitalisation initiatives and introducing cutting-edge technologies to improve business processes and customer experience. The Unit ensures that the NCC derives the most value possible from technology and manages the risks posed by technology. Some of the most important areas of interest for the information technology Unit are infrastructure maintenance, IT governance, securing information assets and systems support to ensure that systems run efficiently.
The Division ensures consumer protection and consumer safety through the enforcement of the provisions of the Consumer Protect Act. It facilitates an environment that enables the resolution of disputes between consumers and suppliers that is expedient, cost-effective, fair, and transparent.
Through the Division, the NCC upon receiving complaints of alleged contravention of the CPA investigates such allegations. The Division also facilitates, conducts, and monitors product recalls.
The Corporate Services Division is aligned with the strategic objectives of the NCC by providing support to all Divisions to ensure compliance with the Consumer Protection Act (Act 68 of 2008) and associated legislation, regulations, and procedures. The Division implement various strategies and policies to improve service delivery within the NCC including capacity of the organisation to cope with change. Corporate Services allocates and manage resources as required to fulfill the goals and objectives of the NCC.
The role of the Division is to promote public awareness of consumer protection matters by implementing education and awareness measures on the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act.
The Division also facilitates stakeholder relation to foster collaboration and cooperations with other regulators within and outside the borders of the Republic of South Africa.
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) operates with a clear mission to protect consumer rights and enhance ethical business practices. To accomplish this mission effectively, the NCC has organized itself into several specialized divisions. Each plays a vital role in this overarching goal.
Complaints and Disputes Resolution Division: Serves as the first point of contact for consumers seeking assistance. this division handles complaints and investigates disputes, aiming for equitable resolutions. It also fosters trust and cooperation between consumers and businesses.
This division is responsible for ensuring that businesses comply with consumer protection laws and regulations. This is done through audits, investigations, and enforcement actions. It holds businesses accountable for unethical practices, reinforcing the importance of adherence to established norms.
To address emerging consumer issues effectively, this division gathers insights, conducts research. It analyzes consumer trends. Moreover, it ensures that the NCC remains proactive in safeguarding consumer interests.
Education and Outreach Division: Empowering consumers with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities is central to this division’s mission. It conducts consumer education and awareness programs, working to create a more informed and vigilant consumer community.
Legal Services Division: This division provides essential legal support, handling proceedings, representing the NCC in court, and ensuring legal compliance across the organization’s activities. Its expertise is crucial in upholding the law and defending consumer rights.
Corporate Services Division: Responsible for managing administrative and logistical aspects, this division oversees human resources, finances, and infrastructure. Its efforts ensure the seamless operation of the NCC, enabling it to focus on its core mission of protecting and empowering consumers.
These divisions, operating in synergy, create a comprehensive framework that promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability in the consumer marketplace. By working together effectively, the NCC continues to serve as a dedicated advocate for consumer rights in South Africa, fostering an environment where consumers can trust and businesses can thrive within ethical boundaries.