Kenya is poised to implement its first-ever National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy by early 2027, a significant step toward safeguarding innovations, trademarks, inventions, and creative assets across the country.
The policy, currently under public consultation, will establish a comprehensive framework for protecting and commercialising intellectual property (IP), covering copyrights, industrial designs, and other forms of IP.
Public Participation and Regional Engagement
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) is leading the consultation process, engaging stakeholders from Uasin Gishu, Turkana, West Pokot, Nandi, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties. During a forum held in Eldoret, ACA Executive Director Mbugua Njoroge emphasized the importance of public input to ensure the policy reflects Kenyans’ perspectives.
“This forum belongs to the people of this region, not to us. We have come to listen, not lecture,” said Njoroge, highlighting Eldoret’s global reputation as the “City of Champions” as an example of intellectual property beyond inventions.
Addressing Counterfeit Goods and Food Security
Mbugua linked the policy to ongoing efforts to combat counterfeit products, which threaten businesses and consumers alike. He cited a recent operation in Uasin Gishu that seized nearly 3,500 bags of suspected fake fertiliser, underscoring the negative impact of counterfeit agricultural inputs on food production.
“Counterfeiters continue to smuggle fake products through unauthorised routes, jeopardizing food security,” he warned, noting enhanced government intelligence and enforcement measures to intercept such goods.
Consumer Awareness and Market Vigilance
The ACA chief urged consumers to be vigilant, cautioning that unusually low prices and purchases from unauthorised dealers often indicate counterfeit items.
“If a product normally priced at Sh10,000 is sold for Sh1,000, consumers should question its authenticity,” he advised.
Reducing demand for counterfeit goods is critical to dismantling illegal networks, according to Mbugua, as a lack of market demand undermines counterfeiters’ operations.
Next Steps
Following the public participation phase, the draft policy will be submitted to the Cabinet and then Parliament for approval. The government is optimistic the policy will be enacted by early next year, marking a milestone in Kenya’s intellectual property landscape.
