In a joint effort to combat Intellectual Property (IP) theft within the country, private investigators are calling for a unified approach and closer collaboration with government agencies.

The call for streamlined engagement was made during a meeting between Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), and Mr. Fredrick Saramba, Chairman of the Intellectual Property Rights Agents Society of Kenya (IPRASK), along with his team members, held in Nairobi today.

IPRASK is a duly registered Kenyan organization representing trademark owners and other intellectual property rights holders in conducting investigations and enforcing IPR laws within the country. Recognized by law as IP agents, they work closely with government agencies to combat counterfeiting.

Welcoming the IPRASK team, Dr. Mbugua expressed the ACA's commitment to fostering public-private sector partnerships as a vital component of the strategy in the fight against counterfeit trade. He emphasized the crucial role played by IP Agents and affirmed the Authority's willingness to engage in a structured partnership with the organization.

Mr. Fredrick Saramba, Chairman of the Intellectual Property Rights Society of Kenya, affirmed his members' willingness to join forces with the ACA, stressing that a united effort is key to the mutual benefit of all stakeholders in the IP crime investigation ecosystem.

"We extend our gratitude to the Authority for granting us this opportunity to discuss our partnership in the fight against counterfeit trade," said Mr. Saramba. "We are well aware of the escalating tide of counterfeiting, which not only undermines legitimate businesses but also poses risks to public health and hampers economic growth. By uniting our efforts, we strive for a safer and more prosperous Kenya."

Mr. Osman Ahmed, the ACA Director for Enforcement, emphasized the need for increased information sharing by IPRASK members to bolster enforcement capabilities. He stated, "Intellectual property rights are essentially private rights, and their enforcement is primarily the responsibility of the individual owners. However, this task often requires the indispensable support of governmental authorities for meaningful and effective results."

Kenya, like many other countries, faces a significant risk of intellectual property infringement. As such, it becomes imperative for government agencies to forge alliances with various stakeholders, including the private sector, to effectively counter the rampant infringement.

The strategic partnership between the Anti-Counterfeit Authority and the Intellectual Property Rights Agents Society of Kenya marks a pivotal step in safeguarding intellectual property rights, which will see the two bodies leveraging their collective expertise and resources to tackle the menace of IP theft and safeguard the interests of businesses, consumers, and the nation's economic growth.