How to Register a Trademark in Kenya

Learn how to register a trademark in Kenya with this detailed guide. Discover the process, costs, duration, and FAQs to protect your brand legally.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Are you ready to protect your brand identity? Whether you’re running a small business, launching a product, or expanding a service, knowing how to register a trademark in Kenya is essential. Trademarks safeguard your unique name, logo, slogan, or symbol from being used by others. In this article, you’ll discover the entire trademark registration process in Kenya, how much it costs, how long it lasts, and what to do if your application is rejected.

If you’ve been wondering how to get started, this guide is tailored for you. We’ll walk you through each step and answer the most frequently asked questions—because protecting your business shouldn’t be complicated.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a distinctive sign, name, logo, slogan, or symbol used by a business to identify and distinguish its goods or services from those of others. In Kenya, trademarks are governed by the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI), the official government agency responsible for IP (Intellectual Property) rights.

When you register a trademark in Kenya, you gain exclusive rights to use that mark nationwide in connection with your goods or services.

Why You Should Register a Trademark in Kenya

Many business owners start out with great names and logos—only to find out later that someone else has trademarked something similar. When that happens, you could face lawsuits, have to rebrand, or even lose your business identity.

Here are a few compelling reasons to register a trademark in Kenya:

Legal protection: Once registered, you have the exclusive legal rights to your brand name and logo.
Brand value: A registered trademark builds trust and increases the value of your business.
Business growth: Trademarks are assets you can license or sell.
Avoiding conflicts: It protects you from infringement claims by others.

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Trademark in Kenya

Let’s break down the exact steps you need to follow:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

Before submitting your application, you must check if your desired name or logo is already in use. This involves conducting a trademark search through the KIPI database.

You can visit the KIPI office in Nairobi or send an email request for a manual or digital search. This step ensures your proposed trademark is unique and reduces the chances of rejection.

2. File an Application

If your search shows no conflicting trademarks, you can proceed to file your application. The application should include:

Your name and address
A clear representation of the mark (name, logo, or slogan)
A list of goods or services the trademark applies to (classified under international Nice Classification)
Payment of the application fee

Applications can be submitted physically at KIPI or online through the KIPI e-filing portal.

3. Examination by KIPI

Once your application is submitted, KIPI will examine it to ensure it complies with trademark laws. This includes evaluating the uniqueness of the mark and whether it may conflict with existing registrations.

4. Publication in the Kenya Gazette

If approved, your trademark will be published in the Kenya Industrial Property Journal (not the national Kenya Gazette). This publication allows the public 60 days to oppose your trademark registration.

5. Issuance of Certificate

If no opposition is filed within 60 days—or if any opposition is successfully defended—KIPI will issue you with a Certificate of Registration. Congratulations! You now officially register a trademark in Kenya.

FAQs on How to Register a Trademark in Kenya

1. How much does it cost to register a trademark in Kenya?

As of 2025, the application fee is approximately KSh 5,000 for one class. Additional fees may apply during publication and certification. Legal or agent fees (if you use a consultant) may add KSh 10,000 to KSh 20,000 more.

2. How to trademark a name and logo in Kenya?

You follow the same process for both name and logo:

Conduct a search
File application with KIPI
Undergo examination and publication
Receive the certificate if no opposition is raised

You can include both the name and logo in the same application or register them separately.

3. How do I do a registered trademark?

To do a registered trademark, you must apply through KIPI. You cannot simply claim a trademark without formal registration if you want legal protection.

4. How to register a trading name in Kenya?

This is done through eCitizen under Business Registration Services, not KIPI. Registering a trading name does not give you trademark rights. Only KIPI registration protects the name as a brand.

5. How long does a trademark last in Kenya?

A registered trademark lasts for 10 years from the date of registration and is renewable indefinitely every 10 years.

6. What is the cheapest way to register a trademark?

The most affordable way is to do it yourself through KIPI. Avoid agents or consultants if you’re confident with paperwork. However, hiring a professional can reduce mistakes that may lead to rejection.

7. How to register a slogan?

A slogan is treated as a wordmark and follows the same procedure as a name or logo. Ensure it is not generic and uniquely identifies your brand.

8. How do you write a trademark on a logo?

Once registered, you can add the ® symbol to your logo to show it is a registered trademark. Before registration, use ™ to indicate intent.

9. What is the most common reason that a trademark might be rejected?

The top reason is similarity to existing trademarks. That’s why conducting a proper search is critical before applying.

10. What is the difference between copyright and trademark?

Copyright protects original works like music, art, books.
Trademark protects brand identifiers like names, logos, slogans.

Both are forms of intellectual property but cover different areas.

11. What is the best way to get a trademark?

The best way is to:

Conduct a search
Apply directly through KIPI
Work with an IP lawyer if your trademark is complex

12. How to conduct a trademark search in Kenya?

Visit the KIPI website or their office to conduct a manual or electronic search. You can also email KIPI with your request.

13. How much does it cost to register a company name in Kenya?

Registering a company name on eCitizen under Business Registration Services typically costs between KSh 950 and KSh 10,650 depending on the structure.

14. How do I get a trading license in Kenya?

Once your business is registered, visit your county government portal or Huduma Centre to apply for a trading license. Fees vary by location and business type.

15. How long can you use a trademark?

As long as you keep renewing it every 10 years, a trademark can be used indefinitely.

16. How do I renew my trademark in Kenya?

Apply for renewal through KIPI before the 10-year expiry. There’s a fee payable for the renewal. Late renewal may incur penalties.

Final Thoughts on How to Register a Trademark in Kenya

Registering your brand isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a smart investment in your business identity. The process may seem lengthy, but it is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Now that you know how to register a trademark in Kenya, you can protect what you’ve worked hard to build.

Whether you’re registering a name, logo, or slogan, make sure you secure your rights before someone else does.

Ready to Register Your Trademark?

Don’t leave your brand unprotected. If you’re ready to register a trademark in Kenya, we can help you every step of the way—from search to certification.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make sure your brand is legally yours.

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