KAM CEO’s Brief | 21st July 2017

KAM Launches EAC Intellectual Property Rights Regime Study

On Thursday, 20th July 2017, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) launched the EAC Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Regime Study which aims to enhance regional protection of IPRs, as a contributor to achieving the industrialization agenda.

KAM has been a key stakeholder in championing the war against counterfeiting in Kenya by supporting the Anti-Counterfeit Agency (ACA) as well as promoting EAC regional integration through the Association’s vigorous advocacy work.

Speaking during the launch, KAM Chief Executive, Ms. Phyllis Wakiaga noted that illicit trade affects manufacturing value-add industries in Kenya and the EAC, erodes the market share of genuine manufactured products, threatens expansion and survival of industries and hampers creation of job opportunities.

For more information contact: joseph.wairiuko@kam.co.ke

Sensitization Seminar on Kenya and EAC Standards Held

Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) in partnership with Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) held a sensitization forum on approved and gazetted Kenya and EAC Standards on Thursday, 20th July 2017 in Nairobi.

In the EAC region, National Standards Bodies (NSBs) are responsible for consumer protection through the development, adoption and enforcement of mandatory standards. Their mandate routinely extends beyond mandatory product standards and into other components of the Standards, Quality Assurance, Metrology and Testing (SQMT).

The development of sound standards and effective administration of standards by Kenya Bureau of Standard (KEBS) in Kenya has helped manufacturers in the reduction of technical barriers to national, regional and international trade, increasing the size of potential markets and positioned Kenyan firms to compete in the world economy.

In addition, sound standards offer an alternative to regulation, with less red tape and business costs, whilst instilling confidence and security for families and small businesses and consumers.

The seminar aimed to create awareness on the current Kenya and EAC standards requirements to enhance efficiency and compliance.

For more information contact: gloria.ocholla@kam.co.ke