Media personality Willis Raburu has responded to the recent ruling in his favor against Airtel Kenya. The court has ordered Airtel to pay Raburu a substantial amount of Ksh.6.5 million in damages using his registered trademark ‘Bazu’ without permission to promote their internet bundle products.
Raburu, who was represented by Victor Orandi of Mathew and Partners Advocates, took Airtel Kenya to court on June 12, 2022, accusing them of trademark infringement.
On the other hand, Airtel presented a defense, contending that Raburu was after quick enrichment and a quiet resolution in the trademark case. They claimed ‘Bazu’ was used by others before Raburu, and continuous use by third parties prevented exclusive rights. Airtel also said ‘Bazu’ was a widely known slang term, not coined by Raburu
The court on March 11 found Airtel guilty of using the ‘Bazu’ trademark without proper authorization, leading to the issuance of an injunction and a compensation order of Ksh.5 million in special damages and an additional Ksh.1.5 million in general damages.
Willis Raburu Elated
Willis Raburu, who is the Director for Digital Services and Innovations at Cape Media, took to social media to express his satisfaction with the outcome. He emphasized the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and applauded the court’s decision, which recognized Airtel’s infringement on his exclusive rights as the registered owner of the ‘Bazu’ trademark.
“I express my gratitude for the recent judgment delivered by Hon. Rawlings Museiga in the magistrate’s court, which holds Airtel Kenya accountable for infringing on my registered trademark ‘BAZU’,”
Raburu stated.
Raburu acknowledged Airtel Kenya as a respected brand but emphasized the necessity of safeguarding his brand and name under the ‘BAZU’ trademark. He urged other businesses to respect intellectual property rights, warning that legal notices have already been served to those infringing on his trademark.
Airtel Kenya has been granted a 45-day stay of execution and the option to file an appeal.
By Vivian K.