The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), represented by Head of Policy Research and Advocacy, Jane Wanjohi, recently met with Dr. Robi Mbugua, Executive Director/CEO of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), to address pressing challenges faced by the cement manufacturing sector stemming from rampant counterfeiting activities.
This meeting underscores a concerted effort to fortify the integrity of Kenya’s cement industry, which is crucial to the nation’s construction sector.
Kenya boasts four clinker manufacturers with an impressive annual production capacity of over 11 million metric tonnes, alongside nine cement manufacturers producing in excess of 14 million metric tonnes each year.
This robust sector provides direct employment for over 10,000 individuals. However, it is currently threatened by the growing prevalence of counterfeit materials, particularly in areas like Athi River, where substandard cement products have infiltrated the market.
Key concerns highlighted during the discussions included the ongoing adulteration of cement and the sale of fake clinker—a critical raw material in cement production.
These practices not only undermine quality but also pose significant risks to consumers, as price-driven decisions may inadvertently lead to the widespread adoption of inferior products.
To combat these challenges, KAM proposed multiple interventions to the ACA, advocating for a focused crackdown on individuals involved in cement adulteration in Athi River and fostering collaborative efforts with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Police Service (NPS) to curb illegal activities effectively.
In response, the ACA pledged to engage with partners to conduct operations aimed at eradicating the production and sale of substandard and counterfeit cement products. Moreover, they expressed intentions to host workshops to educate brand owners on product training and the importance of protecting intellectual property rights.
