Dennis Lubanga, a Seasoned Kenyan journalist, has been honoured by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) for his outstanding reporting on issues related to counterfeit trade in the country.
The recognition was presented during a ceremony held in Nairobi on Monday, August 3 , where Lubanga stood out as the only journalist awarded by the state agency .This award was in commemoration of the annual World Anti-Counterfeit Day held on 6th June.
Lubanga, a former Current Affairs Editor at Tuko News and contributor to several top media houses including Nation Media Group and Y News Digital, has spent years documenting the deep-rooted problem of counterfeit goods flooding Kenyan markets. His work has consistently highlighted how the illicit trade endangers public safety, cripples local industries, and robs the country of vital revenue.
“You have been awarded in recognition and appreciation of your outstanding contribution to public education and impactful reporting on counterfeiting issues, thus enhancing the delivery of ACA’s mandate,” read the certificate presented to him by the agency.
One of Lubanga’s most cited stories is an investigative feature titled “Busia: Porous Kenya-Uganda Border Points Still Conduits of Illicit Counterfeits Trade,” which was published by Tuko News.
In the report, he exposed how lax border controls and corruption have turned the Kenya-Uganda border into a thriving entry point for fake products, despite ongoing government efforts to curb the practice. The piece triggered widespread discussion and calls for tighter enforcement at key border crossings.
In another notable article published on Y News Digital, “Fighting Fakes: Anti-Counterfeit Authority Unveils Ambitious Plan To Eliminate Illicit Goods,” Lubanga captured the agency’s renewed efforts to tackle counterfeits.
He documented ACA’s strategy for collaborating with other state bodies and the private sector to strengthen surveillance and public education. His reporting gave readers a behind-the-scenes look at how the government is attempting to respond to a trade that costs the country billions annually.
His work in the Daily Nation also drew national attention, particularly a story titled “Anti-Counterfeit Agency Impounds Sugar Smuggled from Uganda,” which exposed how counterfeit sugar had been slipping into the country through back channels, posing a serious health risk to consumers.
Speaking after receiving the ACA award, Lubanga expressed gratitude for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to telling stories that make a difference.
“I thank the Anti-Counterfeit Authority for this unique recognition. I am very elated,” he said.
“Also, it is a recognition of my work towards ensuring that the stories we write have a positive impact on society,”he added.
Lubanga, whose journalistic focus includes agriculture, environment, and climate change, has built a reputation as a storyteller who not only exposes problems but also explores possible solutions. His work continues to play a key role in educating the public, informing policymakers and holding institutions accountable.
This recent recognition follows his double honour at the 12th Annual Journalism Excellence Awards (AJEA) held on May 3, 2024, where he was named First Runners-Up in the Agriculture and Food Security – Digital category and Second Runners-Up in the Blue Economy and Business Reporting – Digital category. These accolades highlighted his versatility and the depth of his reporting on issues that directly affect Kenyan livelihoods.
Lubanga’s career, marked by integrity and purpose, stands as an example of how journalism can be used as a force for social good. His relentless pursuit of truth and passion for impactful storytelling have not only earned him national recognition but also the trust of readers who look to journalism for clarity, accountability and change.
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