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Call for Entries: World Intellectual Property Day 2025 Innovations & Creations Awards

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), in partnership with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) and the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO), invites innovators, creators, and inventors to participate in the World Intellectual Property Day 2025 competition.

The celebration, themed “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP”, will be held on 26th April 2025 and presided over by the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry (MITI).

As part of the celebrations, outstanding innovations, inventions, and creations will be recognized and awarded. The call is open to all Kenyan individuals or groups who meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a Kenyan-based innovation or creation.
  • Should have rolled out or be about to launch in the Kenyan market.
  • Must demonstrate economic impact or potential.
  • Must have secured or be in the process of securing Intellectual Property Rights with KIPI or KECOBO.

📩 Submit entries via email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

📅 Deadline for entries: 22nd April 2025

🏆 Winners will be announced during the WIPD celebration on 26th April 2025.

🔗 Download the entry form and detailed call document 

ACA Hosts APRA and PRSK Delegation, Explores Strategic Collaboration for APRA@50 Conference

1st April 2025, Nairobi. The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) hosted a high-level delegation from the African Public Relations Association (APRA) and the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), led by APRA President Mr. Arik Karani. The visit was a formal invitation for ACA’s participation in the upcoming APRA@50 Conference, scheduled for June 9-13, 2025, in Mombasa, Kenya, under the theme “Transforming Africa Through Safe and Responsible Digital Communications.

Counterfeit Fertilizers Worth Ksh 23 Million Seized in Molo, Nakuru County

Eldoret, Kenya – 20th March 2025.

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), in partnership with the National Police Service and other enforcement agencies, has intercepted 233 bags of counterfeit fertilizer worth Ksh 23 million in Molo, Nakuru County. Two suspects have been arrested and are facing prosecution under the Anti-Counterfeit Act, 2008.

Speaking at a media briefing in Eldoret, ACA Executive Director, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, underscored the threat of counterfeit agricultural inputs to Kenya’s food security and economic stability. He urged farmers to remain vigilant, as fake fertilizers degrade soil quality, reduce yields, and cause financial losses.

Port Officials Trained on Product Authentication to Combat Counterfeits in East Africa

MOMBASA. Kenya – More than 50 enforcement officers from key regulatory agencies in Kenya and East Africa have undergone specialized training to combat counterfeit STIHL power saw machines and accessories at the Port of Mombasa and along the Northern Corridor Transit Route.

The two-day product authentication training, held on March 11-12, 2025, at Hotel Sapphire in Mombasa, was organized by Olith Afrique Limited, representing the STIHL brand, in collaboration with the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA). The training brought together officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Kenya Bureau of Standards KEBS) (and the ACA. Regional partners from the Joint Port Control Unit (JPCU) and customs officials from Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo also participated.

Cutting-Edge Bleep App Launched to Combat Counterfeit Trade in East Africa

Nairobi, March 7, 2025 – The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Kenya, in partnership with the Anti-Counterfeit Network (ACN) Uganda, has launched the Bleep App, an AI-driven authentication tool designed to tackle counterfeit trade in East Africa. The app, powered by Cypheme’s advanced AI technology, provides real-time product verification, empowering consumers, enforcement agencies, and businesses to authenticate good instantly and report counterfeit products.

ACA’s Executive Director, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, hailed the app as a milestone in the fight against illicit trade, emphasizing its role in enhancing enforcement, consumer protection, and market surveillance. ACN Chairman Fred Muwema underscored the importance of regional collaboration, noting that "Counterfeit trade is borderless. This
app represents the future of enforcement—technology-led, intelligence-driven, and consumer-empowered."

Counterfeit goods continue to pose a significant threat to the East African economy, with Kenya losing over KSh 100 billion annually due to illicit trade. The Bleep App builds on Kenya’s ongoing IP protection efforts, integrating AI, blockchain, and big data to disrupt counterfeit networks.

ACA and ACN are calling on businesses, consumers, and policymakers to embrace the technology, urging stronger brand protection, public awareness, and regional enforcement efforts to combat counterfeiting effectively.

With the Bleep App, East Africa is taking a bold step towards a counterfeit-free future.

Counterfeit Mobile Phone Accessories worth KSH 4 Million seized in Mombasa Port

Inspectors from the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) have intercepted a shipment of counterfeit mobile phone accessories at the port of Mombasa, seizing over 3,000 items with an estimated value of Ksh 4 million. The haul included counterfeit packaging materials, labels, cartons of fake spare parts, and accessories branded under leading mobile phone trademarks traded in the country.

Under ordinary circumstances, mobile phone accessories are not imported separately from their devices. This irregular practice often serves as a conduit for destination repackaging and labeling. This enables unscrupulous traders to circumvent customs regulations and avoid detection by border officers. By doing so, counterfeit goods are more easily disguised and passed off as genuine items once they reach the local market.

Anti-Counterfeit Authority Seizes 190,000 Counterfeit Fertilizer Packaging Bags In Nairobi Raid

Nairobi, Kenya - February 26, 2025 – The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), in collaboration with other government agencies, conducted a raid leading to the seizure of approximately 190,000 counterfeit fertilizer packaging bags in Nairobi’s Kariokor area. This operation follows complaints from legitimate fertilizer manufacturers and trademark owners regarding the proliferation of fake agricultural inputs.

ACA Regional Manager for Nairobi, Mr. Abid Abikar, confirmed that the empty counterfeit bags, each with a 50kg capacity, were discovered at the illegal facility, ready for filling and distribution. “This seizure underscores our commitment to protecting farmers from fraudulent agricultural inputs that compromise food security and undermine trust in the market,” said Mr. Abikar.

ACA Cracks Down on Counterfeit Agrochemicals Worth KES 3.4 Million

Kitengela Kenya, 17th February 2025.

ACA inspectors have arrested a suspect for having counterfeit agricultural products valued at approximately KES 3,400,000.

The move follows ACA’s heightened war against counterfeit trade and dedication to safeguarding consumers and legitimate enterprises from counterfeit goods.

Mr.  Samuel Kibe Gatitu, was found with a large quantity of counterfeit agrochemicals, including thousands of product units, empty containers, caps, and packaging materials. He was taken into custody and officially booked at Kitengela Police Station for further processing. Investigations are ongoing to dismantle the illicit supply chain associated with these counterfeit agricultural inputs.

ACA and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Strengthen Collaboration to Enhance Prosecution of Counterfeit Cases

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to strengthen collaboration in the prosecution of counterfeiting crimes in Kenya.

This was affirmed today during a meeting between ACA and ODPP officials. 

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, ACA Executive Director, said, “successful prosecution of intellectual property crimes requires close collaboration between investigatory agencies and the prosecution arm of government. Strengthening our partnership with the ODPP will enhance the handling of IP cases and serve as a deterrent against counterfeit trade.”

ACA Partners with PRSK at the 2024 Annual Summit in Homa Bay County

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has partnered with the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) at the ongoing 2024 PRSK Annual Summit, hosted at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay County. This year’s Summit, themed “Elevating PR Counsel in a Disrupted World,” has attracted public relations professionals nationwide to share strategies for navigating the rapidly changing communication landscape.

ACA’s Executive Director, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, a former PRSK Vice President, headlined a panel discussion on “Organizational Positioning: Building Value, Increasing Visibility, and Driving Viability.” Dr. Njoroge emphasized the importance of trust, transparency, and ethical leadership in driving sustainable organizational growth.

ACA and KAM Partner to Tackle Counterfeiting and Boost SME Gains in AfCFTA

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), in partnership with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), hosted a public-private sector dialogue at Voyager Beach Resort in Mombasa, focusing on how Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The event, themed “Enhancing SMEs’ Benefits in the AfCFTA by Fighting Counterfeiting and Related Forms of Illicit Trade,” brought together stakeholders from various sectors to address the barriers preventing SMEs from fully capitalizing on AfCFTA opportunities.

ACA Partners with Murang’a University to Promote Intellectual Property Rights at Inaugural Innovation Week

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) partnered with Murang’a University of Technology (MUT) to mark its 1st Innovation Week, themed “Advancing Cutting Edge Innovations through Science and Technology for Sustainable Development.” The event brought together industry players, academics, and students for conferences and exhibitions, emphasizing the critical role of intellectual property (IP) in fostering innovation, strengthening industry linkages, and driving economic growth.

ACA Executive Director, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge a keynote speaker was accompanied by Dr. John Akoten, ACA Director of Research, Policy, and Public Awareness, and other staff paid a courtesy call to MUT Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dickson M. Nyariki, at his office at the University. During the meeting, Dr. Njoroge reaffirmed ACA’s commitment to collaborating with academic institutions to integrate IP education into research and innovation programs. Prof. Nyariki lauded ACA’s proactive engagement, emphasizing the importance of IP protection in bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Kenya Releases Landmark Report on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement

Kenya has today reaffirmed its commitment to combating counterfeiting and safeguarding intellectual property (IP) rights with the official release of the Second International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-2) Report.

The event, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence, Nairobi Arboretum, was attended by distinguished government and industry leaders. It was officiated by Prof. Erastus Gatebe the Industrialization Secretary who spoke on behalf of the Chief Guest Hon. Salim Mvurya Mgala, E.G.H., Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry.

Public Notice: eCitizen Payment Gateway

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority wishes to inform all our stakeholders that the integration with eCitizen payment gateway is complete. This is in compliance
with the presidential directive on payment for government services.

All ACA import permit applications shall be lodged via Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP) accessed at https://tfp.kenyatradenet.go.ke which has integrated
payments through eCitizen payment gateway.

ACA has integrated the IPR recordation program with eCitizen and transitioned payments for the following services; Application to record intellectual property rights, Application for renewal of recordation of intellectual property rights, Application to continue recordation on change of ownership, Notice of change of name, Application for official search, Application for admission as an IPR agent and Application for renewal of registration as an agent.

Stakeholders are further notified that ACA enforcement services shall be paid for on the eCitizen platform through M-pesa paybill 222 222 as follows:

ACA SERVICESPAYMENT ACCOUNTCOST INCLUSIVE OF TRANSACTION CHARGES
Counterfeiting Fines FVBV Agreed Fine + Kshs. 50
Application for compounding of an offence AFCA 5,050
Exemption as an agent EAAA 1,050
Power of attorney (When Using Agent) PWAU 1,050
Application to the Commissioner to seize suspected counterfeit goods ATTC 10,050
Laying of a complaint LOAC 10,050
Application for Samples AFNS 5,050
Application for inspection of seized goods AFOS 2,050
Additional fees for certification per document AFFC 1,050
Application for copies of statement per page ACSP 100

 

  1. Go to M-pesa
  2. Enter paybill 222 222
  3. Account: Select the payment account of your service as indicated in the table above
  4. Key in the Exact amount
  5. Enter your PIN and Click Send
  6. Wait for the confirmation SMS

NB: ACA shall NOT accept any direct payments to ACA bank accounts. For any enquiries, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Call us on +254 (020) 2280000 or +254 717 430 640

Anti-Counterfeit Authority Participates in KCA University’s Research and Innovation Week

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) was honored to participate in the 3rd Innovation and Industrialization Week at KCA University, themed “From Research to Market: Innovate. Commercialize. Transform.” The closing ceremony of the annual event hosted by the university was today graced by the Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, Executive Director of ACA, who was the Chief Guest and keynote speaker.

In his keynote address, “Innovation, Intellectual Property, and the Future of Industrialization,” Dr. Njoroge emphasized the importance of robust intellectual property (IP) framework in promoting Kenya’s industrial advancement and in safeguarding the work of innovators against counterfeiting.

Strengthening Integrity in Procurement: A Potential Collaboration Between ACA and KISM

In an effort to combat the growing challenges of counterfeiting within Kenya’s procurement and supply chain sectors, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) team recently had the privilege of meeting with Mr. Kenneth Matiba, CEO of the Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) and his team. Led by Executive Director Dr. Robi M. N. King'a and accompanied by Director of Enforcement Mr. Yussuf Osman, Director of Research Dr. John Akoten, and Deputy Director of Education and Public Awareness Ms. Agnes Karingu, this courtesy visit was a significant step toward exploring key areas of potential collaboration.

During the meeting, discussions focused on identifying collaborative efforts that could enhance the integrity of procurement practices in Kenya. The team explored several initiatives aimed at promoting genuine products in the marketplace. Notably, the conversation highlighted the importance of joint awareness campaigns designed to educate both procurement professionals and consumers on the risks associated with counterfeit goods.

Integration with eCitizen Payment Gateway Complete

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority wishes to inform all our stakeholders that the integration with eCitizen payment gateway is complete. This is in compliance with the presidential directive on payment for government services.

All ACA import permit applications shall be lodged via Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP) accessed at https://tfp.kenyatradenet.go.ke which has integrated payments through eCitizen payment gateway.

Implementation of Phase IV of The ACA IPR Compliance Program for Imported Goods Under The Recordation Of Intellectual Property Rights

Pursuant to the provisions of the Anti-Counterfeit Act No. 13 of 2008 (Section 34B) and the Anti-Counterfeit {Recordation} Regulations LN 118/2021 (R4) as read with Article 40(5) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010: The public and stakeholders are hereby notified that:

Following the successful implementation of phases I, II and III of the ACA pre-import permit program, the Authority is further expanding the program with effect from November 1, 2024 to incorporate additional selected HS Codes. This phase also enhances the regulation of chapters already regulated in preceding phases.

To submit IPR particulars for imported goods (Form ACA 2B), follow the steps below:

Meeting with Cement Manufacturing Sub-Sector Leaders to Tackle Cement Adulteration and Counterfeiting Concerns

Today the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Executive Director, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, met representatives of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Cement Manufacturing Subsector, led by Chair Mr. Mohit Kapoor. The meeting discussed ways of addressing the growing challenge posed by unscrupulous traders involved in repackaging cement and infringing on intellectual property rights, posing a significant risk to the safety of construction projects and deceiving consumers.

Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge is the Executive Director, Anti-Counterfeit Authority

As we reflect on the remarkable success of the Second International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE 2) held in Nairobi, we are reminded of the immense progress we have made in our fight against the trade in counterfeits. This year’s conference, themed “Uniting Against Counterfeiting for a Healthy and Safe Future,” brought together key global players, demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in securing intellectual property (IP) rights and protecting consumers.

The presence and active participation of international agencies such as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Japan Patent Office (JPO), and various African and European counterparts signaled the growing global commitment to combating counterfeiting. Their participation showcased how governments, IP enforcement agencies, and businesses can work together to develop robust frameworks for enforcement and regulation. The dialogue and partnerships fostered during ISIPPE 2 have laid the groundwork for stronger future collaborations.

  1. Authority Strengthens Enforcement Efforts Against E-Commerce Counterfeiting Through Training
  2. FCC Tanzania Delegation Visits ACA Kenya in Benchmarking Exercise to Enhance Cross-Border Anti-Counterfeit Measures
  3. Holographic Asia Delegation Visits to Explore Partnership to Combat Counterfeiting Using Cutting-Edge Technology
  4. Kenya Hosts ISIPPE-2 to Mark World Anti-Counterfeit Day 2024
  5. Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts 2024 Stakeholder Recognition Awards
  6. Brand Protection Training for Law Enforcement Agencies Kicks Off in Nairobi
  7. Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts Nairobi Small Business Traders' Leaders in a Move Aimed at Strengthening Collaboration Mechanism
  8. Spearheading the Future of Intellectual Property in Kenya
  9. Anti-Counterfeit Authority and Machakos County Sign MOU to Combat Counterfeiting
  10. A Tripartite Meeting by Government Agencies to Combat Counterfeiting and Boost Trade Efficiency
  11. Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts Fair Competition Commission (FCC) of Tanzania in Renewed Regional Efforts to Combat Cross-Border Trade in Counterfeit Goods
  12. ACA Management Trained on Productivity and Competitiveness Mainstreaming in a Move Towards Enhanced Productivity
  13. 2nd International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-2) Date; 5th-6th June 2024, Nairobi
  14. US Congressional Senior staff delegation visits ACA
  15. ACA Inspectors Undergo Mercedes Benz Genuine Parts Training to Help Detect Counterfeit Parts
  16. Sensitization: Procurement Opportunities for Disadvantaged Groups
  17. Safeguarding Public Health: Anti-Counterfeit Authority and Pharmacy and Poisons Board Unite Forces Against Counterfeit and Illicit Medicines
  18. OP-ED: Share Genuine Gifts this Holiday Season
  19. Public Notice: Warning of Impostors Disguised as ACA Inspectors
  20. Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) and NACADA Forge Alliance to Combat Counterfeits and Drug Abuse

Contacts

Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA)
National Water Plaza
3rd Flr, Dunga Rd Industrial Area,
P.O. Box, 47771-00100 (GPO), Nairobi, Kenya.
................................
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Phone: +254 20-2280000
Mobile: +254 717 430 640

Regional Coverage

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