According to the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), over half of the alcohol sold in Kenya is suspected to be counterfeit, raising serious public health and economic concerns.

Wine emerges as the most frequently counterfeited alcoholic beverage, with an estimated 50% of products on the market being fake. Beer comes in second at 47%, followed by whiskey at 42%, and vodka at 36%.

Other spirits also affected include rum (32%), tequila (28%), gin (23%), brandy (19%), and both liqueurs and craft spirits, each at 11%.

The ACA cautions that these counterfeit products pose significant health hazards due to the use of unregulated substances and unsafe production methods. Additionally, the illicit trade is costing the government billions in lost tax revenue.

In response, the agency is urging for heightened public awareness, tougher law enforcement, and stronger partnerships with alcohol manufacturers to combat the rising menace of fake alcohol in the market.