Seasoned media personality Willis Raburu is one happy (and Ksh 6.5 million richer) man, after the court ordered local telco Airtel Kenya to pay him a whopping Ksh 5 million as special damages and an additional 1.5 million in general damages for copyright infringement.
The former news anchor had sued the company over use of his ‘Bazu’ trademark to promote one of their internet bundle products after he registered it on April 13, 2021 under No. 116744.
Milimani Lawcourts Commercial Chief Magistrate Rawlings Musiega before execution or can finally within the same period.
“I express my gratitude for the recent judgment delivered by Hon. Rawlings Musiega in the magistrates court, which holds Airtel Kenya accountable for infringing on my registered trademark ‘Bazu’. This ruling sets a crucial precedent for upholding intellectual property and copyright rights in the future,” Wrote the TV presenter in response to the news.
He continued: “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.”
Raburu sued Airtel Kenya back on June 12, 2022, accusing the telco of trademark infringement. In their rebuttal, Airtel claimed Raburu did not originally coin the term, since it had been a popularly used in the local Sheng (slang) language, accusing Raburu of being in search of a quick coin.
Raburu further lauded the ruling adding: “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.”
