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.

In terms of impact, ISIPPE 2 registered significant progress. We recorded over 500 participants from 25 countries, marking a notable increase in attendance from the first symposium. Our interactive sessions addressed the latest trends in counterfeiting, emerging challenges in e-commerce, and the role of innovative technologies in IP enforcement. These discussions yielded critical insights, which were complemented by robust statistical evidence indicating that counterfeiting is responsible for over 3.3% of global trade, with significant economic losses, especially in Africa.

One of the key highlights was the exhibitions hosted during the symposium, where stakeholders in IP protection and enforcement showcased cutting-edge innovations, tools, and products designed to combat counterfeit goods. These exhibitions provided an interactive space for participants to witness firsthand how technology is revolutionizing IP protection. From advanced tracking systems to authentication technologies, the fight against counterfeiting is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and we are proud to be at the forefront of these developments.

As we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize that much more needs to be done. ISIPPE 2 has set a high bar, but we are determined to build on this momentum. Plans for ISIPPE 3, scheduled for June 2024, are already underway. We aim to bring even more global actors into the fold, fostering deeper collaborations with industry leaders, governments, and enforcement agencies worldwide. With a focus on sustainability and stronger enforcement mechanisms, ISIPPE 3 will be pivotal in shaping the future of intellectual property protection and enforcement in Kenya and beyond.

The success of ISIPPE 2 would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, including WIPO, the Japan Patent Office, and the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), as well as the government agencies, stakeholders, and IP experts who contributed to the rich discussions. We remain committed to building a counterfeit-free future and ensuring that intellectual property rights are protected for the benefit of innovators, businesses, and consumers globally.

As the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), we look forward to welcoming you again in 2025 for ISIPPE 3, where we will continue to unite in our mission to combat counterfeiting and safeguard the integrity of global trade.

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