Centre: Industrialization Secretary Prof. Trusts Gatebe officially releases the Report on the Second International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement ISIPPE-2 to Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge the Executive Director Anti-Counterfeit Authority. Looking on the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hon Josephat Kabeabea.
The government has launched the Second International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-2) Report. The landmark, underscored Kenya’s resolve to protect its economy, innovators, and consumers.
Officiated by Prof. Erastus Gatebe, Industrialization Secretary, on behalf of Hon. Salim Mvurya Mgala, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, the event brought together distinguished leaders from government, industry, and academia.
“Counterfeiting is a global menace costing the world economy $2.2 trillion annually. In Kenya, it robs us of approximately KES 100 billion every year, undermining lives, fair trade, and economic growth. The ISIPPE-2 Report is a clarion call for collective action.”Gitembe declared
With the theme “United Against Counterfeiting for a Healthy and Safer World,” the ISIPPE-2 symposium earlier this year convened global experts to share insights, best practices, and actionable strategies to address counterfeiting. The report now serves as a blueprint for strengthening IP protection, enhancing enforcement, and raising public awareness.
Prof. Gatebe emphasized the strategic role of intellectual property in Kenya’s industrial transformation. The launch of the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy (NIPPS), developed in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), marks a significant milestone in aligning Kenya with global IP best practices.
“This policy will foster innovation, attract investment, and ensure fair competition,” he said, noting its alignment with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Key initiatives include supporting Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) and establishing County Aggregation Industrial Parks to drive innovation and value addition in all 47 counties. The government is targeting a 20% manufacturing sector GDP contribution by 2030 and aims to triple annual export contributions.
Technology and Collaboration at th
Hon. Josephat Kabeabea, Chairman of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), highlighted the importance of multi-agency collaboration and technology-driven solutions like the Anti-Counterfeit Authority Integrated Management System (AIMS). “This report is more than a publication; it’s a call to action and a blueprint for strengthening enforcement mechanisms while facilitating legitimate trade,” he said.
Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, ACA Executive Director, reinforced Kenya’s leadership in IP protection across Africa, crediting the ISIPPE forums for fostering global collaboration. He also announced plans for the Third International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-3), set for June 4-5, 2025, with a focus on sustainability and advancing enforcement mechanisms.
The ISIPPE-2 Report reflects Kenya’s renewed commitment to combating counterfeiting and driving innovation. As the event concluded, Cabinet Secretary Hon. Salim Mvurya Mgala delivered a powerful message of unity:
“Let us unite as patriots to defend our country against counterfeiting. Together, we can create a safer, healthier world while fostering a culture of innovation for generations to come.”
Kenya’s bold steps to enhance IP protection promise to unlock industrial growth, protect innovators, and ensure a safer marketplace for all. The ISIPPE-2 Report stands as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to combating counterfeiting and fostering economic resilience.