The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has issued a public warning over the rising circulation of counterfeit Team Kenya merchandise, stressing that the Team Kenya logo is a protected trademark and can only be used on products sanctioned by the committee.
In a notice released on Sunday, NOCK said no individual, shop, company, or trader has the authority to produce, distribute, or sell items bearing the Team Kenya logo unless they have been formally approved.
The organisation cautioned consumers against purchasing products from unauthorised sellers who claim to offer official team apparel.
“The TEAM KENYA logo is a protected mark owned exclusively by the National Olympic Committee of Kenya,” the notice stated.
“No individual, shop, or company is authorised to produce, distribute, or sell merchandise bearing this logo other than NOCK.”
The committee urged Kenyans to remain vigilant, warning that counterfeit products not only violate trademark laws but also expose buyers to substandard and unregulated items.
It further advised members of the public to verify the authenticity of any Team Kenya merchandise before making purchases.
“We advise the public not to purchase any items from unauthorised sellers claiming to offer Team Kenya products unless officially authorised by NOCK,” the statement added.
NOCK also appealed directly to athletes, sports officials, and supporters to take an active role in protecting the organisation’s brand identity.
It encouraged them to report any suspicious or unlicensed products in the market.
“You play a critical role in safeguarding our brand,” the committee said.
“By alerting us to any suspected counterfeit merchandise, you help protect both Team Kenya and yourselves from fake or unregulated products.”
The committee clarified that all official Team Kenya apparel and related merchandise will be communicated and supplied either directly through NOCK or through its formally announced partners.
This, it said, is the only reliable way for supporters to ensure they are purchasing legitimate items.
“Official Team Kenya apparel and merchandise will always be communicated and supplied directly through NOCK or its formally announced partners,” the notice read.
NOCK appealed for consumers to exercise caution and vigilance in the market: “Always feel free to reach out to confirm the authenticity of any item before purchase. Hii ni town, usikubali kuingishwa box.”
