Functions Of Competition Authority of Kenya

The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) is mandated to promote and safeguard fair competition in Kenya. Its functions include:

1. Enforcement of Competition Law: The CAK is responsible for enforcing competition laws in Kenya. It investigates and prosecutes anti-competitive practices such as cartels, abuse of dominant market positions, and unfair trade practices.
2. Merger Control: The CAK reviews mergers and acquisitions to ensure that they do not result in a substantial lessening of competition in the market. The authority has the power to block a merger or impose conditions to safeguard competition.
3. Recognizing consumer bodies duly registered under the appropriate national laws as the proper bodies, in their areas of operation, to represent consumers before the Authority;
4. Consumer Protection: The CAK protects consumers by investigating and stopping anti-competitive practices that harm
5. Participating in deliberations and proceedings of government, government commissions, regulatory authorities and other bodies in relation to competition and consumer welfare;consumers. It also educates consumers on their rights and provides guidance on how to lodge complaints.
6. Advocacy and Public Education: The CAK engages in public education and advocacy on competition-related issues. It provides guidance to businesses on compliance with competition laws and educates the public on the benefits of fair competition.
7. Promoting the creation of consumer bodies and the establishment of good and proper standards and rules to be followed by such bodies in protecting competition and consumer welfare;
8. Advising the government on matters relating to competition and consumer welfare.
9. Market Research: The CAK conducts market research to understand the competition landscape and identify potential anti-competitive practices. It uses the data collected to inform its enforcement activities and policy development.
10. International Cooperation: The CAK collaborates with other competition authorities and organizations to promote competition policy and law in Kenya and the East African region.
11. Carrying out inquiries, studies and research into matters relating to competition and the protection of the interests of consumers;
12. Capacity Building: The CAK builds capacity among stakeholders such as businesses, lawyers, and economists on competition law and policy through training, workshops, and seminars.

Overall, the CAK is responsible for promoting a competitive and fair business environment in Kenya. Its functions are critical in supporting economic growth and development.

Competition Authority of Kenya Leadership