The Anti-Counterfeit Agency is planning to go big on consumer education and installation of punitive penalties on infringement of intellectual property laws as it destroys fake goods worth Ksh. 24 million.
The state agency tasked to fight trade in counterfeits has today announced it will soon begin interrogations on how best to address the changing face of counterfeiting in the market.
ACA Executive Director, Elema Halake said the agency’s biggest concern when it comes to fighting this form of illicit trade should go beyond the protection of industries and manufacturers – to the protection of human life and safety.
“We will spearhead the review of Intellectual property laws and regulations to make them more deterrent to tame dynamics of counterfeiting in the market,” said Mr. Halake.
He spoke at Export Processing Zone in Athi River where an array of fake goods ranging from ball bearings used in all moving parts, electronics, electrical goods, clothing, cosmetics/detergents, petroleum products, and vehicle spare parts were destroyed.
A number of food products, stationery, and alcoholic beverages found to pose danger to the society were also destroyed.
Such goods may result into fire outbreaks, accidents, and machine breakages to deaths, as well as environmental degradation.
Themed training and awareness, programs targeting selected stakeholders such as learning institutions, enforcement agencies, IPR Owners and business organizations, and professionals in different fields will be conducted to influence change of mindset for the country towards shunning counterfeits.
“This will also enhance collaborative efforts towards enforcement, public awareness and research-related activities. We want consumers to know counterfeit goods are dangerous and are of no value to them, society, as well the government,” he said.
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Cooperatives, Cabinet Secretary, Adan Mohamed said government is committed to adding more enforcement officers to help track and crack down on counterfeiters as part of a bigger initiative to counter the illicit trade.
Government’s concerns are on electronics, electricals, and consumable products, security items such as locks, and engine oil and motor spare parts.
“All these pose a health and safety hazard for our people. It is therefore inevitable that for the sake of health and safety, we must work together. Let us all take our responsibility towards winning this war,” said Mohamed.
Bearings formed the bulk of goods destroyed that were destroyed at a value of Sh10.2m.
ACA Broad Chairman, Mr. Pradeep Paunarana said the agency wants to build on its capacity and geographical presence by making regional offices fully operational and increasing staffing levels from 78 to 250 in the next five years.
ACA has a major presence in Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret, all of which serve the entry points for counterfeits.
