The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has lauded the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for their decisive action in removing defective and low-quality diapers from the market, commonly referred to as "fake diapers." 

These substandard products have raised significant health concerns among consumers, particularly affecting infants.

The CPA conducted extensive research across several markets in Ghana, revealing that many of these diapers failed microbial tests. 

Investigations uncovered that these diapers are often those rejected during production in their home countries, intended for destruction but instead sold cheaply and imported into Ghana.

The CPA's findings highlighted that these rejected diapers, often found among the trash, are contaminated even before they are repackaged into plain polyethene bags and shipped.

The unsanitary conditions in which they are stored exacerbate the contamination, leading to high failure rates in microbial tests.

The CPA's research, which spanned five regions—Greater Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sefwi Wiawso, and Sunyani—was prompted by numerous complaints from mothers about skin rashes and discomfort in their children after using certain diapers. 

The Executive Director of CPA, Kofi Kapito speaking at a press conference in Accra said the study found that many infants suffered from severe nappy rashes and infections around the anus and genitalia, which, if left untreated, could become fatal.

In light of these findings, the CPA is urging all Ghanaians, especially mothers, to cease using these products immediately to protect their children from further harm. 

Additionally, the CPA is calling on the Commissioner of the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS) to take immediate action to halt the importation of these defective diapers into Ghana.

"Matters of paediatrics are critically important as infants and children are the most vulnerable," the CPA emphasized in their statement.

The CPA expressed its readiness to partner with the FDA in a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about these unsafe diapers and address other consumer safety issues. 

The agency reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with the FDA to enhance consumer protection in Ghana.

Once again, the CPA highly commends the FDA for their efforts in cracking down on these hazardous products, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers across the country.