Anti-Counterfeit Authority

Counterfeiting is more than a market problem. It is a trust problem, an information problem, and a public-interest issue that requires stronger collaboration between enforcement agencies and the media.

This was the message delivered by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority Executive Director, Dr. Robi M. King’a, PhD, during his keynote address at the Annual Pan-African Media Summit held at Safari Park Hotel & Casino, Nairobi.

Addressing journalists, broadcasters, media leaders, government representatives, civil society actors and development partners, Dr. King’a drew a clear connection between counterfeiting and information integrity. He noted that fake products survive because they are presented to the public through false claims, copied brands, manipulated packaging and abused consumer trust.

He emphasized that the same deception that allows counterfeit goods to enter the market also threatens the credibility of information, especially in a digital environment where content can be stolen, altered, rebroadcast without consent or falsely attributed.

For the media industry, intellectual property is not an abstract legal issue. It is found in the stories journalists write, the images they capture, the footage they produce, the music they use, the documentaries they air, the broadcast signals they transmit and the brands their audiences trust. When these assets are copied, pirated or misused, both creativity and public trust are weakened.

Dr. King’a also highlighted the real-life impact of counterfeiting, citing risks to public health, safety, education, agriculture, livelihoods and the economy. Counterfeit alcohol, fake fertilizer, substandard educational materials and unsafe consumer products are not just enforcement statistics; they are stories of deception that affect families, businesses and communities.

The Authority urged the media to treat counterfeiting and piracy as serious public-interest issues, report on intellectual property with depth and accuracy, and help citizens understand the link between fake goods, stolen content and public trust.

Dr. King’a further encouraged media houses to protect their own creative and commercial assets by safeguarding their content, brands, footage, music, digital platforms and broadcast signals from unauthorized use.

The keynote reaffirmed ACA’s commitment to working closely with the media through awareness creation, enforcement updates, technical support and stakeholder engagement to strengthen public understanding of counterfeiting and intellectual property protection.

The message was clear: protecting authenticity is not only about protecting products on the shelves. It is about protecting creativity, journalism, innovation, markets and the integrity of information.

Happy Mother’s Day 🌸

Today, we celebrate the strength, love, sacrifice, and care that mothers give every single day.

At the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, we recognize the important role mothers play in protecting families and communities. As we honor them today, let us also commit to protecting what matters most by choosing genuine and safe products.

Be Smart. Buy Genuine. Say No to Counterfeits.

📞 +254 717 430 640
🌐 www.aca.go.ke

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has impounded suspected counterfeit mobile phone LCD screens valued at approximately Ksh 36 million in an enforcement operation at Simara Mall along Accra Road in Nairobi's Central Business District.

The raid was conducted following a formal complaint lodged with the Authority by the affected Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) owner, whose registered trademarks were being infringed upon by the goods on sale at the premises.

Acting on the complaint and supporting intelligence, ACA enforcement officers recovered more than 40,000 assorted LCD screen products from premises operated by the suspect named in the seizure documents. A Chinese national, Mr. Huang Zhigang, was arrested in connection with the consignment and is currently being held at Nairobi Central Police Station as investigations continue. The seized goods have been inventoried and detained pending the outcome of those investigations and appropriate legal action.

LCD screens are among the most sought-after components in Kenya's fast-growing mobile phone repair and accessories market, where they are used to replace damaged or worn-out displays. Their high demand among consumers, repair technicians and accessory dealers has, however, made the segment a soft target for counterfeit traders. Substandard screens often compromise the quality, durability and performance of mobile devices, exposing buyers to financial loss when the products fail prematurely.

Beyond the immediate cost, counterfeit screens can also affect touch sensitivity, display clarity, screen responsiveness and the overall lifespan of a device. For Kenyans who depend on mobile phones for business, communication, mobile money transactions and access to digital services, a poor-quality replacement screen can translate into repeat repair bills and avoidable disruption to daily life.

Speaking after the operation, ACA Nairobi Regional Manager Mr. Abdi Abikar said the seizure underlines the Authority's resolve to protect both consumers and legitimate IPR holders from the harm caused by counterfeit trade.

"This seizure demonstrates the Authority's continued vigilance in protecting consumers and safeguarding genuine businesses from the unfair competition posed by counterfeit products. We will continue to intensify enforcement operations against individuals involved in the counterfeit trade, and we encourage rights holders to come forward with complaints so that we can act decisively," said Mr. Abikar.

The case spotlights the growing need for vigilance in the mobile phone accessories and repair sector, where counterfeit goods can easily slip into the market on the back of high consumer demand and price sensitivity. ACA has cautioned traders against handling counterfeit goods and urged consumers to source mobile phone accessories only from reputable dealers.

The Authority is also reminding members of the public to verify products before purchase, examine packaging and finishing for tell-tale signs of fakes, avoid offers that appear suspiciously cheap, insist on receipts where possible, and report any suspected counterfeit goods to ACA for action.

ACA Champions Staff Wellness Through HIV Awareness and Mental Health Advocacy

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) today brought its workforce together for an HIV awareness and mental health sensitization session held at the Authority's headquarters. The forum, organised by the in-house HIV Committee, drew staff from every department for a frank, fact-based conversation on prevention, testing, stigma and overall well-being.
Facilitated by guest health experts, the interactive session focused on the realities of HIV in Kenya today — including the latest national statistics and the counties with the highest infection rates, drawing on studies by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council. Participants explored risk factors, the main sources of new infections, the natural history of HIV, and the science behind modern HIV testing kits, with a practical demonstration of how the kits work.
Leading one of the presentations, Mr. Jackson Kihima of the Ministry of Education spoke at length on positive living and how people living with HIV can effectively manage their status.

"HIV is not a killer disease. There are many ways that people living with HIV can ensure they live longer, healthier lives, and equally important ways for those who are HIV-negative to protect themselves from infection," he said.

The conversation extended naturally into mental health, in keeping with Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May. The facilitators walked staff through common mental health conditions, the personal and workplace factors that can contribute to them, and the steps individuals can take — both for themselves and for colleagues — to seek help early.
Ms. Sheila, also from the Ministry of Education, was particularly emphatic on this point.

"Balance is the key to life. When you start to notice signs that something is not right, it is important to seek help as early as possible," she advised.

The session closed with a clear message that good health, both physical and mental, is fundamental to a productive and respectful workplace. Staff were encouraged to know their status, support colleagues without judgement, and look out for the early signs of mental distress in themselves and others.
The HIV and mental health forum is part of an ongoing wellness programme that reflects the Anti-Counterfeit Authority's continued commitment to building an informed, healthy and supportive workforce one that is well equipped to deliver on the Authority's mandate while caring for the people behind it.

The ACA team is taking part at the Innovation Week Exhibition at Technical University of Kenya.
They are currently engaging students and other participants on the harm caused by counterfeit goods and the importance of protecting consumers and their genuine innovations.
Through awareness and sensitization, ACA continues to champion authenticity, safety, and informed consumer choices.

ACA SEIZES KSH 30 MILLION WORTH OF COUNTERFEIT MOTOR VEHICLE SPARES IN KISUMU CRACKDOWN

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has seized counterfeit motor vehicle spare parts worth an estimated KSH 30 million during a high-stakes enforcement operation in Kisumu today.
Led by Kisumu Regional Manager Tom Muteti and supported by the National Police Service, the raid targeted a storage facility near the Kachok flyover in Kisumu, intercepting a massive consignment of illicit goods destined for the local market.

The seizure primarily consisted of high-turnover components, including counterfeit spark plugs and brake pads, which were packaged to mimic reputable global brands. These substandard parts were confiscated after intelligence reports pointed to the location as a central distribution hub for fake automotive spares in the Nyanza region. The Authority confirmed that the goods have been moved to a secure warehouse to serve as exhibits in upcoming legal proceedings.

Officials at the scene highlighted the grave risks these products pose to public safety, noting that counterfeit brake pads and spark plugs are frequent contributors to engine failure and catastrophic road accidents. Unlike genuine parts, these illicit versions do not undergo rigorous quality testing, meaning they often fail under the high-pressure conditions of daily driving.

"The presence of these items in the market also creates an uneven playing field for legitimate businesses that comply with tax and quality regulations." said Mr. Tom Muteti.

This operation is part of an ongoing national crackdown by the ACA to sanitize the automotive industry and protect intellectual property rights. The Authority has reiterated its commitment to dismantling illicit trade networks that sabotage the economy and endanger lives. Motorists are urged to exercise caution and source their spare parts from authorized dealers to ensure vehicle integrity and personal safety.

Speaking at the scene, Mr. Tom Muteti emphasized the danger these goods pose to the public. "Counterfeit automotive parts are a silent killer on our roads. From substandard brake pads to compromised suspension parts, these items do not meet safety standards and are a leading cause of mechanical failure and road accidents," said Mr. Muteti.

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya Executive Director, Dr. Robi M. King'a , PhD, is participating in the International Trademark Association (INTA) Conference at ExCeL London, where he is representing Kenya in high-level engagements on trademark protection, intellectual property enforcement, and the global fight against counterfeiting.

During the conference, Dr. Robi M. King'a delivered a presentation on the role and mandate of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya to trademark and intellectual property professionals drawn from more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide. His engagements focused on strengthening international cooperation, sharing Kenya’s enforcement experience, and contributing to discussions on emerging enforcement challenges, including the safe destruction of hazardous counterfeit goods that require specialised treatment facilities.

He is accompanied by Mrs. Agnes Karingu, Deputy Director, Education and Public Awareness, who presented during the UNREAL Campaign Committee session. Mrs. Karingu shared ACA’s experience in public awareness and consumer education, highlighting the Authority’s use of school-based initiatives, music festivals, opinion leaders, National Government Administration Officers, and sector associations to deepen anti-counterfeit awareness across communities.

Dr. Robi M. King'a is also participating in the Europe, Middle East and Africa Subcommittees, further strengthening ACA’s regional and international partnerships in intellectual property protection and enforcement.

As part of ACA’s global outreach, he extended a formal invitation to INTA members to participate in ISIPPE 3 — the International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement ACA's flagship platform for advancing practical dialogue and collaboration on IP enforcement across Africa and beyond.

The International Trademark Association ( ) Conference brings together trademark and intellectual property professionals, policymakers, practitioners, and industry leaders, making it a key platform for shaping global conversations on the future of IP protection.

Today, we celebrate the dedication, resilience, and commitment of every worker whose efforts keep our nation moving forward.

From enforcement and legal services to training, administration, leadership, research, and every other field, your contribution matters.

It is the dedication of everyday workers that keeps Kenya moving, growing, and thriving.

Happy Labour Day to all workers.

Earlier this morning, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), through the Executive Director, participated in the 67th Border Control and Operations Coordination Committee (BCOCC) Meeting held at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), Karen.

The monthly meeting brought together key stakeholders, where key issues of mutual interest were discussed, with a strong focus on enhancing the safety and security of Kenya’s border points.

ACA Engages Parliament on Efforts to Curb Illicit Alcohol

Efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit and counterfeit alcoholic brews in Kenya came into focus today as the Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya appeared before Parliament to contribute to discussions arising from a public petition on illegal alcoholic brews.

The Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya , Robi M. King'a ,PhD, appeared before the National Assembly Public Petitions Committee at Parliament Buildings, Nairobi, in response to summons on Public Petition No. 2 of 2026 regarding the production, distribution and consumption of illegal alcoholic brews in the country.

He was accompanied by Dr. John Akoten, Director – Research, Policy and Quality Assurance Department (RePPAD), Henry Maina,OGW , Deputy Director – Research and Policy, and Jully Omollo, Ag. Deputy Director – Legal Services.

In his submission, Dr. King’a outlined the Authority’s role in tackling counterfeit alcohol, particularly where illegal brews involve the misuse of protected brands, falsified labels, and the refilling of genuine bottles with unsafe products, which poses significant risks to consumers.

He highlighted key enforcement gains, noting that in FY 2025/2026, Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya seized counterfeit goods valued at over KES 563 million between the first and third quarters, with goods currently held in custody valued at approximately KES 1.78 billion.

On alcohol-specific enforcement, he reported that Q3 alcohol and beverage-related seizures stood at approximately KES 10 million, while targeted operations conducted between January and mid-April 2026 resulted in the seizure of counterfeit alcoholic products valued at approximately KES 4 million.

Despite these gains, the Executive Director noted that illicit alcohol remains a significant concern, accounting for approximately 59% of the market by volume and 21% by value.

He also apprised the Committee of key challenges affecting enforcement efforts, including porous borders, diversion of ethanol into illicit production, refilling of genuine bottles, and the growing use of online and social media platforms in the distribution of counterfeit products.

Dr. King’a reaffirmed ACA’s commitment to strengthening enforcement, enhancing collaboration with partner agencies, and supporting interventions aimed at protecting consumers, safeguarding legitimate businesses, and curbing the proliferation of counterfeit and illicit alcohol in Kenya.

ACA Signs Joint AEO Recognition Framework with KRA to Strengthen Trade Facilitation and Curb Counterfeits

Nairobi, Kenya, 29th April 2026 — The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has formally signed the Framework for Joint Recognition of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), reaffirming its commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while strengthening safeguards against counterfeit goods entering the Kenyan market.

The signing took place during a meeting held at ACA Headquarters in Nairobi between ACA and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) AEO team. The ACA delegation was led by the Executive Director, Dr. Robi M. King’a, and included Mr. Lindsay Kipkemoi, Deputy Director Enforcement, Ms. Jully Omollo, Ag. Deputy Director Legal Services, and Mr. Caspar Oluoch, Head of Recordation. The KRA AEO team was led by Ms. Maureen Wanginda.

The framework, spearheaded by KRA through its AEO Secretariat, seeks to promote a coordinated approach among regulatory agencies in the recognition and facilitation of compliant traders. It is expected to reduce duplication, improve predictability in cargo clearance, enhance information sharing and strengthen risk-based interventions across Partner Government Agencies.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. King’a affirmed ACA’s full support for the programme, noting that the framework provides an important platform for agencies to facilitate compliant importers while maintaining strong enforcement against counterfeits.
“As ACA, we are fully on board and ready to work with KRA and other participating agencies to facilitate legitimate trade while protecting consumers, intellectual property rights holders and the economy from counterfeit goods,” said Dr. King’a.
He noted that the framework aligns closely with ACA’s Intellectual Property Rights Recordation Programme, which supports import monitoring and enables the Authority to identify and act against suspected counterfeit goods at points of entry. He further assured the KRA AEO team that ACA will honour its commitments under the framework, including swift processing of AEO cargo, conditional release and destination verifications, exemptions for importers who have recorded their brands under the ACA IPR Recordation Programme, and intelligence-led inspections.

KRA, through Ms. Wanginda, outlined the expected operational benefits, including express approvals through the Integrated Customs Management System, reduced verification timelines, improved coordination among agencies and enhanced use of intelligence-led inspections. She noted that the framework is expected to become fully operational in the next financial year, following ongoing capacity building and stakeholder sensitisation supported through collaboration with the World Customs Organization.

Dr. King’a officially signed the Joint AEO Recognition Framework, thereby committing ACA as a key regulatory institution in the programme. The signing marks an important step in strengthening inter-agency collaboration, improving Kenya’s trading environment and ensuring that trade facilitation is supported by effective enforcement against illicit and counterfeit goods.