Court orders Airtel to pay Willis Raburu KSH5 million over 'bazu' trademark

Airtel Kenya has been ordered to pay media personality Willis Raburu damages worth ksh 5 million for the infringement of his registered  ‘bazu’ trademark.

The ruling was made by magistrates judge Rawlings Museiga .

“While we acknowledge Airtel Kenya as a respected brand and business, it is imperative for me to safeguard my own brand and name under ‘BAZU’ trademark. The process has been guided by my lawyer, Victor Orandi, from Matthew and Partners Advocates, for which I am thankful for their unwavering support and guidance throughout this journey. Respect for intellectual property is paramount, and those using the name BAZU without authority will face similar consequences, as legal notices have already been served. I extend my gratitude to God for this favorable outcome. Success is reflected in actions, and I am grateful for the resolution of this matter.” Raburu said in a tweet.

Raburu had on June 24, 2022 sued the telecommunication company for using his trademark ‘Bazu’ in promoting its new bundles’ plan ‘Bazu Bundle’. Bazu means ‘big man’ in sheng.

Through his lawyer Victor Orandi of Mathew and Partners Advocates, Raburu filed the case at the High Court but was on May 9, 2023, transferred to the magistrates court.

The ruling has been received with mixed reactions by Kenyans on social media. Creatives are of the opinion that the ruling is a major  win for them in a society where IP is not taken seriously while some netizens are criticizing Willis for  ‘owning” a name that doesnt belong to him.