Nairobi, Kenya — Once limited to informal markets and street vendors, counterfeit goods in Kenya have found a new home: the internet. From social media platforms to e-commerce websites, fake products are now just a click away, complicating efforts to protect consumers and the economy.
A 2024 survey by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) revealed that 31.27% of counterfeit purchases occur online, a significant rise from previous years. Traditional sources like street vendors and small shops still account for a large share, but the digital shift is unmistakable.
“Counterfeiters are exploiting the anonymity and reach of online platforms,” said Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, ACA’s Executive Director. “This trend poses a serious threat to public health and safety.”
The range of counterfeit products is vast, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agricultural inputs, food items, vehicle parts, and electronics. These fake goods not only endanger consumers but also undermine legitimate businesses and the country’s economic goals.
The financial impact is staggering. Kenya loses over KSh100 billion annually due to counterfeit trade, according to ACA estimates. This loss affects tax revenues and hampers the country’s development initiatives.
In response, the ACA is enhancing its digital surveillance capabilities. Collaborations with the Communications Authority and e-commerce platforms aim to monitor and act against online violations. Technological tools like the recently launched Bleep App allow consumers to verify product authenticity in real-time.
“The Bleep App empowers consumers to report counterfeit products instantly,” Dr. Njoroge explained. “It’s a significant step in our fight against illicit trade.”
Public awareness campaigns are also intensifying. The ACA is leveraging social media, influencer partnerships, and vernacular communication to educate consumers about the risks of counterfeit goods and how to identify them.
However, challenges persist. A performance audit by the Office of the Auditor-General highlighted issues within the ACA, including staff integrity concerns and limited enforcement capacity. The audit noted that only four cases had been prosecuted, with over 200 pending, indicating a need for systemic reforms.
The government acknowledges these challenges. Investment, Trade and Industrialization Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano affirmed the commitment to intensify crackdowns on counterfeit goods, emphasizing the importance of protecting legitimate manufacturers and consumers.
As counterfeiters adapt to the digital age, so must the strategies to combat them. Through technological innovation, public engagement, and institutional reform, Kenya aims to safeguard its markets and consumers from the growing threat of counterfeit goods.
