United against illicit goods and counterfeits

In recent years, Kenya has made significant strides in combating illicit goods and counterfeit products. Proliferation of fake and substandard goods continues to undermine the economy, endanger public health, and stifle legitimate businesses. While government agencies like the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have been at the forefront of this fight, the role of ordinary citizens cannot be overstated. It is time for every Kenyan to take a stand against this menace and actively participate in safeguarding our nation’s future.

The Kenyan government, through various agencies, has implemented robust measures to curb the influx and distribution of illicit goods. For KRA, border surveillance and customs checks have been enhanced to intercept counterfeit products entering the country. Advanced technologies such as cargo scanners and data analytics have been deployed to detect and seize illicit goods at ports of entry.

Partner Agencies such as the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has been instrumental in raising awareness about the dangers of counterfeit products and enforcing intellectual property rights. The ACA has conducted numerous raids, seized counterfeit goods worth millions of shillings, and prosecuted offenders. Additionally, the agency has partnered with stakeholders to educate the public on how to identify and report fake products. The Kenya Police have also played a critical role in dismantling networks involved in the production and distribution of illicit goods. Through coordinated operations with other agencies, they have disrupted smuggling rings and closed down illegal manufacturing hubs.

To complement these efforts, the fight against illicit goods therefore requires a collective approach. Counterfeit products, especially pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food items, pose serious health risks. Fake medicines, for instance, may contain harmful substances or lack active ingredients, putting lives at risk. There is an urgent need for consumers and citizens as a whole to come together and actively join the fight against illicit goods. By rejecting counterfeit goods, citizens can protect themselves and their loved ones from harm.

The business community plays a key role in economic growth and job creation by supporting importation, production and circulation of genuine products. In addition, there is need for collaboration between the business community and government agencies to achieve this critical milestone.

Counterfeit goods often undercut legitimate businesses by offering cheaper, substandard alternatives. This unfair competition discourages innovation and investment. Citizens can level the playing field by choosing authentic products and supporting local industries. Illicit trade is often linked to organized crime, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and terrorism; also undermines legitimate businesses, leading to job losses and reduced tax revenues By rejecting counterfeit products, citizens can help disrupt these criminal networks and enhance national security.

As a Citizenry, we must continually remain vigilant and identify counterfeit products by checking subtle indicators such as trademarks, holograms and quality certifications. We can also use our voice to educate others about the dangers of counterfeit goods, share information on social media, participate in community awareness campaigns, and encourage our peers to join the fight. We can also engage with policymakers and advocate for stricter laws and penalties against counterfeiters, and thereby support initiatives that promote transparency and accountability within the supply chain.

Developed countries have successfully tackled the issue of counterfeit goods through a combination of interventions for instance, the United States established the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Centre which brings together multiple agencies to combat counterfeit trade. Public awareness campaigns such as the You Can Help Stop Fakes have empowered citizens to report counterfeit goods. China has significantly reduced the problem through strict enforcement, public education, and the use of digital tools like QR codes to authenticate products.

Kenya can draw inspiration from these examples by leveraging technology, strengthening partnerships, and empowering citizens to take an active role in the fight against illicit goods.

Chege Macharia - Deputy Commissioner Border Control and Enforcement,  at the Kenya Revenue Authority