Government Reaffirms Commitment to Protect SMEs, Traders and Consumers from Counterfeits

Nairobi, Kenya – 20 January 2026- The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting legitimate businesses, consumers, and Kenya’s economy from the harmful effects of counterfeiting and illicit trade during the Nairobi County Interactive Stakeholder Forum, which is currently underway at the Weston Hotel, Nairobi.

The forum was convened by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority - Kenya (ACA) and brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives from the state department for Industry, partner agencies, law enforcement officers, manufacturers, the jua kali sector, universities, and the private sector.

The forum was graced by the Principal Secretary, State Department of Industry, Dr Juma Mukhwana, PhD, CBS, who emphasized that counterfeiting and illicit trade continue to undermine industrial development, fair competition, and job creation.

Dr Juma Mukhwana, PhD, CBS urged participants to produce more locally and take advantage of government support frameworks to grow Kenya’s manufacturing sector, noting that increased local production is key to creating jobs and strengthening economic resilience.

“We must produce more locally, strengthen our manufacturing sector, and create jobs for our people. Counterfeiting undermines these efforts by punishing compliant businesses and discouraging investment. Protecting legitimate enterprise is central to our industrial agenda,” said Dr. Mukhwana.

Speaking during the forum, the Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, Robi M. King'a PhD, highlighted the Authority’s mandate to protect consumers, safeguard intellectual property rights, and support legitimate trade.

“Counterfeiting is not just a legal issue, it is a consumer safety issue, a business competitiveness issue, and an economic issue. Nairobi, as a major entry and distribution hub, plays a critical role in shaping market integrity across the country,” said Dr. King’a.

Also addressing participants during the opening session was the County Commissioner, Nairobi North East, Dr. Werre Simiyu, who emphasized the importance of coordinated enforcement and public awareness in protecting communities and businesses from counterfeit goods.

“Counterfeit goods pose real risks to consumers and undermine law-abiding traders, importers, and manufacturers. Strong coordination between enforcement agencies and stakeholders is essential to secure our markets and protect the public,” said Dr. Simiyu.

Discussions at the forum are focusing on strengthening enforcement coordination, enhancing compliance, promoting awareness, supporting SMEs and the jua kali sector, and fostering collaboration between government, academia, industry, and the private sector.