Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) of Kenya has exposed how traders import counterfeit rice and distribute it to unsuspecting buyers across the country.
In a statement dated Thursday, September 1, the agency revealed that unscrupulous traders engage cartels who import rice which does not meet the local standards.
The counterfeit rice is then repackaged and branded to mimic local brands before being distributed to different outlets across the country.
The revelation comes after a consignment of rice unfit for consumption worth Ksh40 million was impounded at a go-down in Shimanzi, Mombasa county.
The cache which had not undergone standardisation tests by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), was in 50-kilogram bags. During the raid, a total of 10,000 bags were seized.
ACA Coast Region Head Elina Mnari explained that the raid followed complaints from some traders over the widespread sale of counterfeit rice.
It also follows past reports that indicate plastic rice was in circulation in the country, a claim that KEBS dismissed.
"This matter is under active investigation to establish the particulars of the importer & the mode of trade," Elina explained.
"The rice that we have seized could have ended up in people's homes and restaurants," she added while warning traders and consumers to be on the lookout.
To help Kenyans access authentic products, KEBS rolled out a short message platform.
"To check the validity of your products, send the permit number underneath the KEBS Standardization Mark to 20023 using the format SM#PermitNo.
If the product is invalid, kindly make a complaint on our Toll-free line of 1545 during work hours for follow-up," KEBS explained.
Using the short code, even motorists can check a car's mileage and year of manufacture and confirm if an automobile meets the thresholds to be considered roadworthy.
