This archive report was first published on 16 September 2019.
On Friday, March 13th, 2019, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) destroyed an assortment of counterfeit goods worth Sh5 million in Mombasa. The goods, which included fast-selling items like footwear, clothing, electronic goods, cosmetics, and stationery, were replicas of popular local and international brands.
According to Ms. Flora Mutahi, the chairman of the ACA Board, the destruction of the counterfeit goods was a clear violation of the Anti-Counterfeit Act 2008 law of Kenya. Mutahi stated, ''This is a clear violation of the Anti -Counterfeit Act 2008 law of Kenya,'' and added that ACA had taken adequate time in Mombasa to oversee the destruction of the counterfeited goods.
Mutahi expressed confidence that the series of high-profile seizures being carried out by ACA would go a long way in planting the seed of fear and uncertainty in the hearts and minds of counterfeiters. She also appealed to stakeholders, especially brand owners, to share knowledge, offer assistance, and collaborate with enforcement agencies to achieve an environmental-friendly disposal and destruction operation.
ACA wants to send the right message out there that Kenya has both legal and institutional frameworks to fight counterfeits and hence a conducive investment environment. Mutahi added, ''With increased investment, Kenya will definitely have a more vibrant and strong growing economy, employment and development. We also want to send a stern warning to counterfeiters to cease and desist from trade in counterfeit,'' she said.
ACA has a road map to implement through the National Action Plan against illicit trade. Mutahi expressed her commitment to reinforce institutional links and further open up to the private sectors to assist in law enforcement and consumer awareness programmes to cut the demand side of counterfeiting.
