Kenya Emerges as Africa’s Frontline Leader in Fight Against Counterfeiting

By Jared Odhiambo,

Nairobi hosts regional summit as WIPO and Japan back stronger IP enforcement efforts across the continent

Nairobi, Kenya — November 3, 2025
Kenya is cementing its position as a continental leader in the fight against counterfeiting and illicit trade, as global partners rally behind its drive to strengthen intellectual property (IP) enforcement across Africa.
This week, Nairobi is hosting a high-level Sub-Regional Seminar on Intellectual Property Enforcement an initiative jointly organized by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and supported by the Japan Patent Office (JPO).

The three-day event has drawn participation from enforcement officers, customs officials, prosecutors, and IP administrators from Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. The goal: to build a unified regional front against the growing tide of counterfeit goods and IP violations undermining African economies.

“The fight against counterfeiting transcends borders,” said Dr. Robi M. King’a, Chief Executive Officer of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority. “No single country can win this battle alone. Kenya’s approach — built on collaboration, enforcement, and public awareness — reflects our vision to safeguard innovation and secure fair markets for all.”
Under Dr. King’a’s leadership, Kenya has built one of the region’s most coordinated anti-counterfeiting frameworks, combining legal enforcement, stakeholder training, and public education. The country’s Anti-Counterfeit Act and its multi-agency enforcement model are now being studied by several African nations seeking to modernize their own systems.

Joining the meeting virtually, Mr. Edward Kwakwa, WIPO’s Assistant Director General, praised Kenya’s leadership and underscored the importance of collective regional action.

“Effective IP enforcement is not just about law — it’s about protecting creativity, consumers, and fair competition,” Mr. Kwakwa said. “WIPO will continue working with African governments to build capacity and deploy digital tools that address emerging IP crimes in the online economy.”
Japan, one of WIPO’s strongest global partners, also reiterated its support for African innovation. Speaking at the seminar, Ambassador Matsuura Hiroshi of Japan emphasized the link between intellectual property protection and sustainable economic development.

“Innovation flourishes where creativity is respected and protected,” said Ambassador Matsuura. “Through the Japan Patent Office, we will continue to support Africa’s efforts to build robust IP systems that attract investment and stimulate industrial growth.”

The seminar includes expert sessions by WIPO and the World Customs Organization (WCO) on cross-border enforcement, digital piracy, and inter-agency coordination. On the final day, participants will engage in a hands-on product identification exercise led by private sector rights holders and IP specialists.

The Nairobi gathering is part of WIPO’s Building Respect for IP Program, backed by Japan, which aims to empower African enforcement agencies with knowledge and tools to combat cross-border counterfeiting, piracy, and trade in illicit goods.

As Kenya leads this charge, experts say the country’s example could help shape a stronger, fairer trading environment for innovators, consumers, and legitimate businesses across Africa.

“This is more than a conference — it’s the start of a new phase in Africa’s IP journey,” noted Dr. King’a. “By working together, we can turn the tide against counterfeits and unlock the full potential of African creativity.”


About the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA)

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority, established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act No. 13 of 2008, is Kenya’s lead agency tasked with combating counterfeit trade and enforcing intellectual property rights. Operating under the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, ACA partners with both public and private sector players to promote innovation, consumer safety, and fair competition.

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