OUR POLICIES

This policy guide is effective from 28 December 2024

Introduction

Kornabay is a dynamic multivendor e-commerce platform designed to facilitate seamless transactions between vendors and consumers. By providing a digital marketplace, Kornabay empowers local businesses in Ghana and beyond to showcase their products and services to a broader audience. This platform not only enhances the shopping experience for consumers by offering diverse choices but also enables vendors to reach potential customers who may not have been accessible through traditional retail channels. Understanding the terms and conditions associated with Kornabay is crucial for all users and vendors. These terms serve as a legal framework that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party involved in transactions on the platform. For vendors, familiarizing themselves with these guidelines ensures compliance with Kornabay’s policies, which can help in establishing trust and maintaining a positive reputation among consumers. Moreover, adherence to these terms helps protect vendors from potential disputes or misunderstandings. For users, knowing the terms and conditions is equally important. It equips them with the necessary information regarding their rights when purchasing products and services, including return policies, payment methods, and dispute resolution processes. This knowledge empowers consumers to make informed decisions while shopping, leading to a safer and more satisfactory online experience. As Kornabay continues to grow, both vendors and consumers must engage with these conditions to foster a transparent and efficient marketplace. This understanding not only enhances the overall user experience but also contributes to the platform’s commitment to promoting fair and ethical business practices in Ghana and globally.

Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using Kornabay, users and vendors agree to be bound by these terms and conditions. It is essential to understand that these terms govern your access to the platform and outline your rights and obligations. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you must refrain from using Kornabay. Users must be at least 18 years of age to create an account and engage in transactions on Kornabay. If you are under 18 years old, you may only use Kornabay under the supervision of a parent or guardian who agrees to these terms on your behalf. By registering, you confirm that you meet the age requirement and have the authority to enter into this agreement. User registration on Kornabay involves providing accurate and complete information during the sign-up process. It is the user’s responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of their account credentials and to restrict access to their account. Users are also responsible for all activities that occur under their account. If you suspect any unauthorized use of your account or any breach of security, you must notify Kornabay immediately. Vendors, in addition to users, have specific responsibilities regarding their accounts. Vendors must ensure that all information provided is truthful and not misleading. They are also responsible for the products and services they offer, including adherence to all applicable laws and regulations. Kornabay reserves the right to suspend or terminate any account that violates these terms or engages in fraudulent activities. By continuing to use Kornabay, you affirm your acceptance of these terms and conditions, thereby contributing to a safe and trustworthy environment for all users and vendors involved.

Definitions

To ensure clarity and facilitate understanding of the terms and conditions outlined in this document, the following key terms are defined:

Vendor: A vendor refers to any individual or entity that offers products or services for sale on the Kornabay platform. Vendors are responsible for providing accurate descriptions and maintaining the quality of their offerings, as well as complying with all applicable laws and regulations governing their business activities.

User: A user is any individual who accesses or interacts with the Kornabay platform, either to browse, purchase products, or engage with vendors. Users must be at least 18 years old to create an account and are responsible for safeguarding their account credentials.

Platform: The platform denotes the digital marketplace operated by Kornabay, where vendors and users can connect. It encompasses all functionalities provided by Kornabay, including product listings, transaction processing, and customer support.

Products: Products are items offered for sale by vendors on the Kornabay platform. This term encompasses all tangible goods, digital products, and services available for purchase by users.

Transaction: A transaction refers to the process of purchasing a product or service on the Kornabay platform, which involves the exchange of goods for payment. This term includes all interactions related to the ordering, payment, and delivery of products.

Terms and Conditions: These are the legally binding rules and guidelines that govern the use of the Kornabay platform. They outline the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of vendors and users, ensuring compliance with legal standards across different jurisdictions.

Account: An account is a user-specific profile created on the Kornabay platform, which allows access to its features and functionalities. Users are responsible for all activities conducted under their accounts and must maintain confidentiality regarding their login information.

These definitions are provided to enhance understanding and ensure legal compliance for all parties involved in the Kornabay marketplace, promoting a clear and efficient user experience.

Registration and Accounts

Creating an account on Kornabay is a straightforward process designed to ensure a secure and efficient experience for both users and vendors. To begin, users must visit the Kornabay registration page, where they will be prompted to fill out a registration form with essential information. This includes the user’s full name, email address, and a password. For vendors, additional information is required, such as business name, type of products offered, and tax identification details. This information is crucial for maintaining compliance with local trade laws and regulations. Once the registration form is completed, users and vendors must agree to Kornabay’s terms and conditions, confirming they have read and understood the obligations associated with using the platform. After submitting the registration form, users receive a confirmation email, which contains a verification link. Clicking this link verifies the email address and activates the account. In the case of vendors, the verification process may also involve submitting additional documentation to confirm the authenticity of the business. Account maintenance is an ongoing responsibility for users and vendors alike. Users should regularly update their personal information and change their passwords to enhance security. For vendors, it’s essential to keep product listings current, respond promptly to customer inquiries, and monitor sales performance. Kornabay provides tools and resources to help vendors manage their accounts effectively and maintain compliance with platform guidelines. To further ensure the safety of all users, Kornabay implements periodic account reviews. Accounts that exhibit suspicious activity may be temporarily suspended pending further investigation. Both users and vendors are encouraged to report any unusual activity to the Kornabay support team immediately. This proactive approach to account security helps create a trustworthy environment for all participants in the Kornabay marketplace.

User Responsibilities

Users of the Kornabay platform have several important responsibilities that are crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of their accounts and the overall marketplace. One of the primary obligations is the protection of login information. Users must take necessary precautions to ensure their account details, including passwords, are kept secure and confidential. This includes not sharing their login credentials with others and utilizing strong, unique passwords that are regularly updated. By doing so, users help prevent unauthorized access to their accounts, which could lead to identity theft or fraudulent activity. Additionally, users are required to provide accurate and complete information during the registration process and any subsequent updates. This commitment to accuracy is essential not only for ensuring a smooth transaction experience but also for maintaining the trust of other users and vendors on the platform. Misrepresentation of personal information can result in account suspension or termination, as Kornabay prioritizes transparency and honesty among its members. Furthermore, users must adhere to local laws and regulations while using the Kornabay platform. This encompasses a wide range of legal considerations, including but not limited to consumer protection laws, data privacy regulations, and any applicable trade laws. Users are expected to be aware of and comply with these legal obligations, as failure to do so could lead to legal repercussions for both themselves and Kornabay. By fulfilling these responsibilities, users contribute to a secure, trustworthy, and legally compliant marketplace. Their active participation in safeguarding their accounts, providing accurate information, and adhering to local laws ultimately enhances the experience for all users and vendors involved in the Kornabay community.

Vendor Responsibilities

Vendors on the Kornabay platform play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and trustworthy shopping experience for users. Their responsibilities encompass a variety of obligations that are essential for maintaining product integrity, compliance with laws, and consumer satisfaction. First and foremost, vendors must ensure the accuracy of their product listings. This includes providing truthful and detailed descriptions of the products, including pricing, dimensions, materials, and any other relevant specifications. Misleading or inaccurate information can lead to customer dissatisfaction and potential disputes, which could harm the vendor’s reputation on the platform. Compliance with relevant trade laws is another critical responsibility for vendors. They must familiarize themselves with and adhere to all regulations pertaining to their products and services, including safety standards, labeling requirements, and import/export laws. This not only protects consumers but also helps mitigate legal risks for both the vendor and Kornabay. Timeliness in delivery is also a key expectation for vendors. They are required to fulfill orders within the specified timeframes communicated to customers. Delays in delivery can result in negative reviews and diminished consumer trust. Therefore, maintaining an efficient logistics system is vital for vendors to meet customer expectations consistently. Customer service is another area where vendors must excel. They are expected to respond promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and concerns. This includes addressing issues related to product quality, order status, and any other inquiries that may arise during the purchasing process. Effective communication can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Lastly, vendors must implement a fair and transparent process for handling returns and disputes. This includes clearly outlining their return policy and being responsive to customer concerns regarding returns or refunds. By managing these situations effectively, vendors can build trust with their customers and foster long-term relationships. By fulfilling these responsibilities, vendors contribute to a positive shopping experience on Kornabay, benefiting themselves and the platform as a whole.

Payment Terms

Kornabay is committed to facilitating secure and efficient payment processing for all transactions occurring on its platform. This section outlines the key details related to payment processing, applicable fees, refund policies, currency considerations, and the management of payments between users and vendors.

Payment Processing

All transactions on Kornabay are processed through a secure payment gateway that supports various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and mobile money services. Users can select their preferred method at checkout, ensuring a convenient and flexible purchasing experience. The payment processing system is designed to encrypt sensitive information, safeguarding both users and vendors during financial exchanges.

Applicable Fees

Kornabay may charge vendors a nominal transaction fee for each sale made through the platform. This fee structure is designed to support the operational costs of maintaining a secure and reliable marketplace. Vendors will be informed of any fees applicable to their transactions prior to finalizing a sale. Users, on the other hand, will not incur any additional fees beyond the product price and shipping costs unless specified at the time of purchase.

Refund Policies

Kornabay maintains a clear refund policy aimed at promoting transparency and trust among users and vendors. Users are entitled to request a refund under specific circumstances, such as receiving a damaged item or if the product does not match the description provided by the vendor. Requests for refunds must be submitted within a stipulated time frame, typically within 14 days of receiving the product. Vendors are expected to respond promptly to refund requests and comply with Kornabay’s guidelines to ensure a fair resolution.

Currency Considerations

All transactions on Kornabay are conducted in the local currency, Ghanaian Cedis (GHS). Users are encouraged to check the currency conversion rates if they are purchasing from international vendors. Kornabay may provide currency conversion tools to help users understand the equivalent value in their local currency, ensuring clarity during the purchasing process.

Management of Payments

Payments will be managed through Kornabay’s integrated system, which ensures timely disbursement to vendors upon successful completion of a transaction. Vendors will receive notifications regarding payment status, enabling them to track their sales efficiently. Kornabay is dedicated to maintaining accurate records of all transactions, providing both users and vendors with access to their transaction history for reference and accountability. This comprehensive approach to payment management fosters a secure and trustworthy environment for all parties involved.

Intellectual Property Rights

Ownership of content on the Kornabay platform is a critical aspect that ensures the protection of both vendors and users. This includes all forms of content such as branding, product descriptions, images, and any user-generated content that may be submitted to the platform. By participating in Kornabay, vendors and users acknowledge the importance of intellectual property rights and the need to respect these rights throughout their engagements.

Ownership of Content

Vendors retain ownership of the content they create, including product descriptions, images, and branding elements associated with their listings. This ownership enables vendors to protect their unique offerings and maintain their brand identity in the marketplace. However, by uploading this content to Kornabay, vendors grant the platform a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use, reproduce, modify, and display such content for the purpose of operating and promoting the marketplace. This license is crucial as it allows Kornabay to showcase vendors’ products effectively while ensuring compliance with relevant intellectual property laws.

User-Generated Content

Users may also contribute content to the platform, such as reviews, comments, and questions regarding products or services. Similar to vendors, users retain ownership of their user-generated content. By submitting this content, users grant Kornabay a non-exclusive, perpetual license to use, reproduce, and display it as part of the platform’s features. This provision fosters a community-oriented environment where users can share their experiences and feedback, enhancing the overall user experience for the marketplace.

Respect for Intellectual Property

It is imperative for both vendors and users to respect the intellectual property rights of others. Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials, trademarks, or any proprietary content is strictly prohibited on Kornabay. Vendors must ensure that the content they upload does not infringe on the rights of third parties, while users should refrain from posting any content that may violate intellectual property laws. Kornabay actively monitors the platform for potential infringements and reserves the right to take appropriate action, including removal of content or suspension of accounts, in instances of violation.

Through these guidelines, Kornabay aims to create a fair and equitable environment for all participants, reinforcing the significance of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation and creativity within the marketplace.

Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

The terms and conditions of Kornabay shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Ghana. This governing law ensures that all transactions and interactions on the platform comply with local statutes and regulations. It is essential for both users and vendors to be aware of their rights and obligations under Ghanaian law while engaging with Kornabay, as this will serve as the foundation for resolving any disputes that may arise. In the event of a dispute between users and vendors, or between Kornabay and its users or vendors, the parties are encouraged to seek resolution amicably through direct communication. Effective communication can often resolve misunderstandings or grievances before they escalate into formal disputes. However, if a resolution cannot be achieved through informal discussions, the following procedures shall apply.

Dispute Resolution Procedures

Mediation: In the first instance of a dispute, parties should consider mediation as a viable option. Mediation involves a neutral third party, who facilitates discussions between the disputing parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Kornabay advocates for mediation as it is typically less adversarial and can preserve relationships between users and vendors.

Arbitration: If mediation fails, the next step involves arbitration. All disputes that remain unresolved after mediation shall be submitted to binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the Ghana Arbitration Centre. The arbitration shall take place in Accra, Ghana, and the decision rendered by the arbitrator(s) shall be final and binding on all parties involved. This process ensures a fair and impartial resolution, with the added benefit of confidentiality.

Jurisdiction: Any legal proceedings arising from or related to these terms and conditions shall be exclusively submitted to the competent courts of Ghana. Users and vendors waive any objection to the jurisdiction or venue of such courts, thereby ensuring that all legal matters are handled locally, in accordance with Ghanaian law.

By participating in Kornabay, both users and vendors acknowledge their understanding of these governing laws and dispute resolution mechanisms, which aim to foster a fair and transparent marketplace.

Amendments to Terms

Kornabay reserves the right to amend its terms and conditions at any time to ensure compliance with legal standards, improve user experience, and adapt to the evolving needs of the marketplace. Any amendments will be communicated to users and vendors through a notice on the Kornabay platform, which may include an email notification, a banner on the website, or an update in the user account section. This proactive approach ensures that all parties are informed of changes in a timely manner. The process of amending the terms is initiated when Kornabay identifies the need for updates. These updates may encompass changes in applicable laws, enhancements to the platform’s features, or adjustments in operational procedures. Upon making these amendments, Kornabay will provide a clear summary of the changes made, along with the effective date of the new terms. Users and vendors are encouraged to review these updates carefully as they will be bound by the revised terms upon their next use of the platform. It is essential for users and vendors to understand that continued use of Kornabay following any amendments signifies their acceptance of the new terms and conditions. If a user or vendor does not agree with the changes, they have the option to stop using the platform and terminate their account. This clause reinforces the importance of staying informed about the terms governing the platform and encourages active engagement with the conditions that govern transactions. In summary, Kornabay’s ability to amend its terms ensures that the platform remains responsive to legal requirements and user needs. By providing adequate notice and requiring users to acknowledge changes through continued use, Kornabay fosters a transparent and compliant environment conducive to fair commerce.

Limitation of Liability

Kornabay strives to provide a reliable and secure platform for all users and vendors. However, it is essential to clarify the limitations of liability associated with the use of the Kornabay platform, particularly concerning transactions, user interactions, and third-party products. These limitations are designed to protect Kornabay from claims of indirect damages and ensure a fair understanding of the responsibilities of all parties involved. Kornabay shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from or related to the use of the platform, including but not limited to loss of profits, data, or other intangible losses. This includes damages resulting from the actions of vendors or users, such as disputes regarding product quality, delivery issues, or user-generated content. Users and vendors acknowledge that they are responsible for their interactions and transactions on the platform and that Kornabay cannot guarantee the outcomes of these interactions. Additionally, Kornabay is not responsible for any third-party products or services offered on its platform. While vendors are required to provide accurate descriptions and maintain the quality of their offerings, Kornabay does not endorse or warrant the performance, reliability, or legality of any products sold by vendors. Users are encouraged to exercise due diligence when engaging with third-party vendors, and any disputes or issues arising from such engagements should be resolved directly between the parties involved. Users and vendors must understand that by using Kornabay, they assume all risks associated with transactions and interactions on the platform. This includes evaluating the quality and suitability of products, as well as the reliability of vendors. Kornabay’s liability limitations are intended to foster a transparent marketplace where users and vendors can confidently engage while being aware of the inherent risks involved in online transactions. In summary, Kornabay’s limitations of liability serve to protect the platform from claims related to indirect damages and emphasize the importance of personal responsibility among users and vendors in their business interactions.

Privacy Policy Reference

Kornabay is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy of its users and vendors through the implementation of a comprehensive privacy policy. This policy outlines the methods by which user data is collected, utilized, and protected, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations worldwide. Kornabay understands the importance of maintaining user trust, and as such, is committed to transparency regarding its data practices.

Data Collection

Kornabay collects personal information from users and vendors during the registration process and throughout their interactions on the platform. This information may include names, email addresses, phone numbers, and payment details. Additionally, data may be gathered through cookies and tracking technologies, which help enhance the user experience by personalizing content and advertisements. Users have the option to manage their cookie preferences through their browser settings.

Use of Data

The primary purpose of collecting user data is to facilitate transactions, enhance the user experience, and improve the overall functionality of the Kornabay platform. User information is used to process payments, communicate important updates, and provide customer support. Kornabay may also utilize aggregated data for analytical purposes, enabling the platform to identify trends and improve services.

Data Protection

Kornabay employs robust security measures to protect user data from unauthorized access, alteration, and disclosure. These measures include encryption, firewalls, and secure server facilities. Furthermore, Kornabay adheres to relevant data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act in Ghana, ensuring that users’ rights are prioritized. Users have the right to access, modify, or delete their personal data, as well as the option to opt out of marketing communications. Kornabay’s privacy policy is regularly reviewed and updated to remain compliant with evolving regulations and best practices, reflecting its commitment to user privacy and data protection.

Termination of Services

Kornabay reserves the right to suspend or terminate user and vendor accounts under specific conditions to maintain the integrity and security of the platform. These conditions primarily include violations of the terms and conditions, engagement in fraudulent activities, or non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Violations of Terms

Any behavior that contravenes Kornabay’s established terms and conditions can lead to immediate account suspension or termination. Such violations may include, but are not limited to, providing false information during the registration process, misrepresenting products or services, or engaging in abusive or harassing behavior towards other users or vendors. Kornabay takes these matters seriously as they compromise the trust and safety of the entire community.

Fraudulent Activity

Kornabay is vigilant against fraudulent activities that can harm users and vendors alike. Any account suspected of engaging in fraudulent transactions, including but not limited to payment fraud, identity theft, or the sale of counterfeit products, will be subject to immediate suspension. Kornabay employs advanced monitoring systems to detect suspicious activity and will conduct investigations as necessary. Users and vendors found to be participating in fraudulent schemes will face permanent account termination and possible legal action.

Non-Compliance with Laws

Users and vendors must comply with all relevant laws and regulations governing their activities on the Kornabay platform. This includes adherence to consumer protection laws, intellectual property rights, and local trade regulations. Failure to comply with these legal obligations may result in account suspension or termination. Kornabay actively collaborates with law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance and address any legal infractions that occur on the platform. By establishing these conditions for suspension and termination, Kornabay aims to foster a secure and trustworthy environment for all participants. Each user and vendor is expected to uphold these standards, contributing to a fair and ethical marketplace that benefits everyone involved.