By Sarafina Musyoki, January 19, 2026

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has issued a warning to parents, students, schools, and retailers over the continued circulation of counterfeit scientific calculators in the market.

The warning follows an enforcement operation conducted in Nairobi’s Central Business District, where ACA officers seized 2,996 fake scientific calculators during a raid at Rubymall. The counterfeit items are estimated to be worth approximately KSh8 million.

Speaking after the operation, ACA Nairobi Regional Manager Abdi Abikar cautioned that counterfeit learning tools pose serious risks to learners, especially during academic work and examinations. He noted that fake calculators are often unreliable, producing incorrect results or failing unexpectedly.

Abikar urged parents and schools to ensure students use genuine and dependable learning materials. He explained that counterfeit calculators are commonly sold at unusually low prices and packaged to closely resemble legitimate brands, making them difficult for consumers to identify.

According to the Authority, traders often target high-demand periods to flood the market with substandard products. ACA reminded the public that dealing in counterfeit goods is a criminal offence that attracts severe penalties under the law.

Consumers were advised to purchase learning tools only from authorised outlets and to verify product authenticity before buying. The Authority also noted that some manufacturers have introduced QR code verification systems to help buyers confirm genuine products.

ACA said enforcement operations against counterfeit educational materials will continue nationwide and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected counterfeit goods through official ACA reporting channels.