Message of condolences from the Board, Council and Staff of Consumers International
Rosemary Siyachitema
It is with deepest sadness that we learn of the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Rosemary Siyachitema, Executive Director of the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe and Board Member of Consumers International. Today we join together in mourning the loss of a great woman, a visionary and a leader. Rosemary’s life was characterized by devotion and service to others, whether through nursing or in fighting for social justice in the marketplace.
Leading the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe since 2004, Rosemary spearheaded the introduction of the Consumer Protection Act in Zimbabwe which finally came to fruition in 2019. Today, because of her vision and foresight, 15 million people benefit from legislature which supports a fair, efficient, sustainable and transparent marketplace. As a Board Member of Consumers International, Rosemary championed consumer advocacy for all consumers, and for strengthening of consumer protection and consumer advocacy in Africa. She actively and tirelessly engaged consumer advocacy groups in her work to build standards, to improve food safety, to instil fairness in financial services and to make sure we “leave no-one behind”.
Rosemary served on numerous boards locally and internationally, among them the Zimbabwe Women’s Resource Centre Network, National Pricing and Income Commission, Buy Zimbabwe Board, Anti Money Laundering Advisory Committee, Food Standards Advisory Council, World Urban Network, Young Men’s Christian Association and Non-State Actors Forum. Rosemary was a committed philanthropist who gave her time and expertise to her community, and never lacked for a kind thought or wise, far-sighted advice.
In the words of Nelson Mandela: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” Rosemary’s legacy will live on, not only in the country she helped but also through the consumer advocates and activists around the world she inspired. The Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Consumers International, and consumer advocates around the world, send sincere and deepest condolences to the immediate and extended family of Ms Siyachitema. We know that words can give little consolation to relieve grief, but we should like you to know that we too will be grieving for her.