In a significant development, a consultative meeting was convened earlier on today, with executive members of business associations from Kisumu and the Lake Basin region. The primary objective of this meeting was to enhance  collaboration and information sharing in combating the prevalent issues of counterfeit and illicit trade within the area.

Taking the lead in this endeavor, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) engages different stakeholders including partner government agencies and the trade community to foster legitimate trade practices. The paramount goal is to shield both the public and businesses from the harmful effects of counterfeit products, intellectual property theft, and unfair trade practices.

During the meeting, Dr. Robi Mbugua, Executive Director of the Anti-counterfeit Authority acknowledged the challenges faced by the business community and emphasized the need for joint efforts to overcome these obstacles. Dr. Mbugua reiterated the ACA's commitment to facilitating free and fair trade in local markets, while encouraging businesses to collaborate by sharing vital information and promptly reporting any instances of illicit trade to the relevant authorities.

Research findings underscored the magnitude of counterfeit and illicit trade, revealing a total estimated value of Kshs 726 billion in 2017 and Kshs 826 billion in 2018, representing a 14% increase. Of particular concern was counterfeiting, which accounted for approximately Kshs 100 billion annually. Kisumu city ranked among the top five hotspots in the region, contributing to 33% of such activities, with Nairobi county leading at 88%, followed by Mombasa and Nyeri, both at 45%, and Meru and Nakuru, both at 34%.

The meeting drew participation from various sectors, including business and industry professionals, as well as partner agencies such as the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Kenyan Employers, Kenya National Alliance of Street Vendors and Informal Traders (KENASVIT), National Taxpayers Association, Pubs, Entertainment & Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK), Lake Basin Tourism Association, Agro-Dealers Association of Kenya, and other key stakeholders.

Counterfeit and illicit trade pose significant challenges for Kenya, much like many other countries. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders in this fight remain indispensable to safeguarding the region's economy, national security, and the well-being of its citizens.