The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has announced a nationwide crackdown to deal with the growing problem of fake and substandard goods being brought into the country.
Speaking about the new operation, KEBS North Rift Regional Manager Vincent Cheruiyot said that the agency will intensify inspections at every official border point in an effort to stop illegal and poor-quality products from entering Kenya.
Cheruiyot explained that the increase in counterfeit and substandard goods is largely caused by porous borders and weak enforcement by some agencies. He warned that KEBS will not spare anyone found helping smugglers or distributing fake items.
“We are currently stationed at major border points like Malaba, Busia, Mombasa, and others. Our officers are inspecting goods, collecting samples, and running tests,” Cheruiyot stated.
He stressed that all imports must comply with the country’s standards before being allowed into the market.
“We want to ensure that every product entering Kenya meets the required standards,” he added.
Cheruiyot pointed out that the rise in cross-border trade within regional blocs such as the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) may have contributed to the spread of counterfeit goods. Kenya is a member of all these blocs, which allow easier movement of goods.
However, he insisted that KEBS will continue to enforce regulations without compromise, noting that increased trade also boosts the economy.
“There are many products coming in, but our role is to make sure everything meets the standards set in our regulations,” he said.
Another KEBS official, Redempta Cherotich, urged ordinary citizens to be active in the fight against counterfeit goods. She emphasized that public participation is vital, as consumers are the first line of defence.
She encouraged Kenyans to always check for the KEBS Standardization Mark of Quality on products and to report any suspicious or fake labels.
Recent data from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) showed that by December 2024, KRA had intercepted fake and non-compliant goods worth Ksh243.5 million at various entry points.
Kenya’s Major Border Points
Kenya has more than 15 official border crossing points. These include:
Kenya–Uganda border:
- Malaba
- Busia
- Suam
- Lwakhakha
Kenya–Tanzania border:
- Namanga
- Taveta/Holili
- Lunga Lunga/Horohoro
- Sirare/Isebania
- Loitoktok
Kenya–South Sudan border:
- Nadapal/Lokichogio
- Todonyang
Kenya–Ethiopia border:
- Moyale
- Sololo/Forolle
Kenya–Somalia border:
- Liboi/Dobley
- Mandera
- El-Wak
With the new crackdown, KEBS hopes to block fake products at the source, protect consumers from dangerous goods, and safeguard local industries from unfair competition.
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