By Eddah Waithaka
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), with key enforcement agencies, successfully raided Nairobi’s Kariokor area, seizing about 190,000 counterfeit fertilizer bags.
The operation, initiated by complaints from legitimate fertilizer manufacturers and trademark owners, targeted the spread of fake agricultural inputs that threaten Kenya’s farming sector.
The raid comes at a critical time as Kenya approaches the planting season, a period marked by heightened demand for agricultural inputs. Unscrupulous traders often exploit this surge to flood the market with counterfeit products, risking farmers’ livelihoods and national food security.
Read More On: https://africawatchnews.co.ke/nairobi-county-and-kplc-settle-financial-dispute/
Seized 50kg empty bags found at an illegal facility were ready for filling and distribution. Mr. Abid Abikar, ACA Regional Manager for Nairobi, confirmed the operation’s success, stating, “This seizure highlights our commitment to protecting farmers from fraudulent inputs that threaten food security.”
He emphasized the ACA’s dedication to eradicating counterfeit goods and safeguarding Kenya’s agricultural sector. Authorities are now investigating a suspected ringleader of the counterfeit syndicate, with legal proceedings expected to follow. This raid is a key milestone in the ACA’s efforts to combat counterfeiting and protect farmers.
A representative from a trademark-owning company, who chose to remain anonymous, praised the government’s proactive intervention. “Counterfeit products erode farmer trust and damage the credibility of genuine brands. We are committed to offering the best products and appreciate the government’s support in eradicating illegal activities,” the representative said.
If the 190,000 counterfeit bags had reached the market, they would have represented 9.5 million kilograms of fraudulent fertilizer, deceiving farmers. With an estimated market value of KSh 3,000 per bag, this indicates a potential loss of KSh 57 million, underscoring the significant risks from counterfeit products.
The ACA has urged farmers, distributors, and consumers to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities regarding counterfeit agricultural products. Counterfeiting not only undermines productivity and livelihoods but also poses a serious threat to national food security.
The authority continues to work tirelessly to ensure a counterfeit-free market, protecting both farmers and the broader economy.
Read More Stories At: https://africawatchnews.co.ke/
