WIPO AND KENYA LEAD REGIONAL EFFORT TO COMBAT COUNTERFEITING ACROSS AFRICA
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PRESS RELEASE
WIPO AND KENYA LEAD REGIONAL EFFORT TO COMBAT COUNTERFEITING ACROSS AFRICA.
Nairobi, November 3, 2025 — Kenya, through the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), has opened a Sub-Regional Seminar on Intellectual Property (IP) Enforcement in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and with the support of the Japan Patent Office (JPO).
The three-day seminar, being held in Nairobi, has brought together law enforcement officials, prosecutors, customs officers, and IP administrators from Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya to strengthen regional capacity and coordination in the enforcement of intellectual property rights.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Dr. Robi M. King’a, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, welcomed participants and emphasized the need for sustained regional cooperation in the fight against counterfeiting and illicit trade.
“The fight against counterfeiting transcends borders. No single agency or country can win this battle alone,” said Dr. King’a. “Kenya’s enforcement model, anchored in the Anti-Counterfeit Act and a robust multi-agency framework for enforcement and creation of public awareness against trade in counterfeits. These efforts reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding innovation, protecting consumers, and securing fair markets across Africa.”
Mr. Edward Kwakwa, Assistant Director General, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector at WIPO, who joined the event virtually, commended Kenya and ACA for hosting the regional seminar and reaffirmed WIPO’s commitment to strengthening IP enforcement capacity across Africa.
“Effective IP enforcement is vital for fair markets, consumer protection, and rewarding innovation,” said Mr. Kwakwa.
“WIPO remains committed to supporting African governments through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and digital tools to help enforcement officers address new forms of IP crime in the digital economy.”
In his remarks, His Excellency Mr. Matsuura Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to Kenya, underscored Japan’s long-standing partnership with WIPO and Kenya in promoting intellectual property protection and enforcement in Africa.
“Japan believes that innovation flourishes where creativity is respected and protected,” said Ambassador Matsuura.
“Our continued support through the Japan Patent Office reflects our belief that strong IP systems drive industrial competitiveness, fair trade, and sustainable economic growth.”
The seminar features presentations from WIPO experts, the World Customs Organization (WCO), and national enforcement bodies on subjects such as border enforcement, online IP crime, evidentiary standards, and inter-agency cooperation. Participants will also engage in a hands-on product identification and training session led by private sector rights holders and IP practitioners on the final day.
The Sub-Regional Seminar forms part of WIPO’s Building Respect for IP Program, supported by the Japan Patent Office, which aims to enhance the capacity of African enforcement officials to tackle cross-border counterfeiting and piracy, protect innovation, and promote fair trade. #Ends
About the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA):
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority, established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act No. 13 of 2008, is Kenya’s lead agency mandated to combat counterfeit trade and enforce intellectual property rights. Operating under the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, ACA collaborates with national and international partners to promote innovation, fair competition, and consumer safety.
For media inquiries:
Tom Muteti,
Head of Public Communication
Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA)
Tel: +254 708223384 | Email:
Website: www.aca.go.ke
