Optimising Multiagency Collaboration to Combat Counterfeiting

• Yussuf Osman Ahmed

  Anti-Counterfeit Authority

  Author

The rise of counterfeit goods in Kenya presents significant risks to public safety, economic stability, and intellectual property rights. Following market liberalisation in the 1990s, the influx of substandard products has become a pressing issue. The Anti-Counterfeit Act, specifically Section 16(4), calls for establishing the Intellectual Property Enforcement and Coordination Advisory Committee to enhance enforcement and policy development. This study explores the effectiveness of multi-agency collaboration in combating counterfeiting through qualitative research based on desktop analysis of secondary data from academic journals, government reports, and international organisations. The research evaluates institutional frameworks, enforcement challenges, and inter-agency coordination efforts by utilising content analysis and case studies. Insights drawn from regional and global examples, such as the EU’s Anti-Counterfeiting Rapid Intelligence System (ACRIS), enrich the analysis. Findings reveal that coordinated intelligence operations, enforcement measures, legislative advocacy, and public awareness campaigns have successfully mitigated counterfeiting. Nonetheless, systemic issues impede progress, including inadequate funding, interagency conflicts, and corruption. Despite seizing counterfeit goods valued at KES 8 billion in 2019, the lack of sustained political commitment and societal engagement has limited long-term impact. The study recommends a robust governance framework and enhanced national cooperation to strengthen enforcement efforts against counterfeiting in Kenya.

1. Yussuf Osman Ahmed, Anti-Counterfeit Authority

   Yussuf Osman Ahmed is the Director of Enforcement at the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Kenya’s lead agency, which combines counterfeiting under the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry. With over 20 years of experience in consumer protection and intellectual property (IP) enforcement, served at ACA for 14+ years. Regionally, he collaborates with the Pharma Crime Working Group (Africa) through the US DOJ/OPDAT-ICHIP. He holds a B.Ed. (Science) from Kenyatta University, an IP Master’s from Ankara University, and is pursuing a Master’s in Governance at African Nazarene University. I have additional IP diplomas, WIPO training, and leadership certifications from the Kenya School of Government.

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