Anti-Counterfeit Authority Signs Research Contract with KCA University to Combat Counterfeiting
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has today signed a research contract with KCA University in a move aimed at enhancing the fight against counterfeiting in Kenya.
The partnership aims to conduct research at both firm and consumer levels, focusing on four sectors: automotive spare parts, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, energy, electronics
and electrical, and alcoholic beverages.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, Executive Director of ACA, highlighted the importance of the collaboration in combating the global menace of counterfeiting.
“The signing of this research contract marks an important step in our ongoing battle against the global menace of counterfeiting. Research is important in the fight against counterfeiting and illicit trade as it provides valuable insights into the scope, trends, and economic impact of counterfeit
products,” said Dr. Njoroge.
The ACA, established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act of 2008, is mandated to combat counterfeit products through enforcement of intellectual property rights, public awareness, research, and
policy recommendation. This new research initiative will help ACA better understand the methods employed by counterfeiters, identify the most affected sectors, and assess the effectiveness of current anti-counterfeiting measures. The insights gained will inform policy development, enhance enforcement strategies, and guide industry practices.
Dr. Njoroge emphasized the gravity of the counterfeiting issue, citing global and local statistics.
“Globally, the trade in counterfeit and pirated goods amounts to approximately $509 billion
annually, about 3.3% of world trade. In Kenya, the situation is equally alarming, with the total
value of illicit trade in Kenya in 2018 recorded at Kshs 826 billion,” he noted.
The research will be conducted in eight regions of Kenya – Nairobi, Western, Nyanza, Central, North Eastern, Rift Valley, and Coast – ensuring a comprehensive and representative analysis of the counterfeiting landscape in the country.
The Kenya Association of Manufacturers will support the research by providing a list of firms to be interviewed.
Dr. Njoroge expressed his gratitude to the ACA team and KCA University for their commitment to this initiative. “I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my team led by Dr. John Akoten, the Director for Research, Planning and Public Awareness, together with his Deputy Director for
Research, Mr. Henry Maina, and the researchers of KCA University led by Dr. Peter Kariuki with the assistance of Dr. Christine Simiyu. Your expertise and commitment are essential to the success
of this endeavor,” he said.
Dr. Njoroge reiterated that the fight against counterfeiting is a shared responsibility, calling on all
stakeholders to join hands in creating a market environment that is vibrant, competitive, fair, and secure for investors and consumers.
The global threat of trade in counterfeit products are known to beyond manufacturer’s financial
and market share losses, to the theft of other people’s ideas and inventions and the overall impact on taxes and customs duties. With significant social, ethical and health consequences, the illicit
trafficking of counterfeit goods is a crime which touches virtually all nations and societies in one
way or another.
Post Author
