As schools reopen across the country, the government has raised concern over a growing influx of counterfeit stationery being sold to parents and students, warning that fake learning materials could undermine education outcomes.
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority says dishonest traders are flooding the market with fake school items, particularly scientific calculators and textbooks, by luring buyers with attractive prices.
The authority cautioned that these products are designed to look like genuine brands, making it difficult for unsuspecting buyers to detect them.
The warning comes after ACA officers carried out an enforcement operation in Nairobi’s Central Business District, where they confiscated 2,996 counterfeit scientific calculators valued at about Sh8 million. The authority said the seized items were being sold to parents and students preparing for the new school term.
Abdi Abikar, the ACA Nairobi manager, said the use of counterfeit learning tools poses a serious risk to learners.
“Counterfeit calculators often give inaccurate results or fail unexpectedly. As learners return to school, parents and retailers must ensure students are equipped with genuine and reliable learning tools,” said Abikar.
The authority explained that fake calculators are commonly sold at prices far below the normal market rate and packaged in a way that closely resembles original products. These items mainly target parents, students, schools, and small retailers who may not be aware of the differences.
ACA has urged parents, learners, schools, and traders to remain cautious by buying learning materials only from approved outlets and confirming product authenticity before making purchases. The authority said this would help reduce the spread of counterfeit stationery in the market.
To support buyers, several brands have introduced QR-based verification systems that allow consumers to confirm whether a product is genuine before using it.
The advisory comes a few months after the Consumer-Level Survey Report 2025 revealed that the country loses about Sh800 billion every year due to counterfeit goods. The report noted that fake products hurt government revenue, weaken lawful businesses, and expose consumers to safety risks due to poor quality.
ACA has once again urged parents to avoid cheap roadside bargains and stick to trusted sellers.
“Counterfeit goods are dangerous to health and sabotage the economy. Report suspicious products to the relevant nearby state institution.”
The authority further disclosed that 60 percent of counterfeit purchases happen through street vendors, while 31.27 percent are made online, highlighting the need for increased vigilance among buyers.
