By Jamillah Oluka
Kampala, Uganda; In a bold move to safeguard the economy and protect legitimate businesses, the Parliament of Uganda has initiated public consultations on the Anti-Counterfeit Goods Bill 2023.
Led by the tireless efforts of Hon. Asuman Basalirwa and Hon. Ebwalu Jonathan, this legislative endeavor aims to curb the influx of counterfeit goods plaguing the nation’s markets.
The launch of these public consultations marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s fight against counterfeit goods. With the support of the Anti-Counterfeit Network (ACN) and esteemed partners, stakeholders from all sectors are invited to contribute their insights over the next three months, starting from April 2024. Sessions will be held across the country, ensuring inclusivity in the legislative process.
Hon. Basalirwa emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting how counterfeits exacerbate economic challenges and fuel youth unemployment. “We need the ACGB 2023 to address this negative trend with punitive sanctions against the culprits,” he stated, urging the public to actively engage in the consultations.
Echoing his sentiments, Hon. Ebwalu Jonathan underscored the bipartisan nature of the bill, emphasizing its potential to unite Ugandans across political, social, and economic divides. “The ACGB 2023 is a non-partisan people’s law which should unite and heal the wounds of the political divide,” he declared.
Fred Muwema, a prominent advocate against counterfeits and Chairman of the ACN, hailed the ACGB 2023 as a long-awaited intervention. He emphasized that counterfeits pose a grave threat to public health and the economy, estimating that over a third of Uganda’s national budget is squandered due to this menace.
Muwema’s words ring true as counterfeit goods infiltrate every aspect of Ugandan society, affecting both consumers and counterfeiters alike. The need for decisive action is undeniable, and the Anti-Counterfeit Goods Bill 2023 represents a beacon of hope in the fight against this pervasive threat.
As Uganda takes this significant step forward, it calls upon all citizens, brand owners, regulators, and consumers to join forces in championing this cause. Together, we can stem the tide of counterfeit goods, safeguard our economy, and pave the way for a brighter future for all Ugandans.
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