Journalist Willis Raburu, director of digital services and Innovation at Cape Media has immersed to his social media account to celebrate his victory over Airtel.
Willis Raburu sued Airtel Kenya for using its registered trade mark without obtaining the necessary approval. The Milimani Commercial Court has ordered Airtel Kenya Limited to pay journalist Willis Raburu KSh6.5 million plus additional compensation for using its trademark, ‘Bazu’. The renowned journalist told the court that he had officially registered the trademark of ‘Bazu.’ Raburu expressed his gratitude for the judgment given recently by Hon. Rawlings Museiga in the Milimani court, adding that it is holding Airtel Kenya responsible for violating its registered trademark ‘BAZU’.
Willis also recognized Airtel Kenya as a reputable brand and business but also emphasized how important it was to him to protect his brand and name under the ‘BAZU’ trademark. The director of digital and creative services of Cape media in his statement further emphasized that respect for intellectual property rights is important, and those who use the BAZU name without authority will face the same consequences, adding that legal notices have already been issued.
Raburu on June 24, 2022 sued the telecommunications company for using his trademark ‘Bazu’ in promoting his new ‘Bazu Bundle’ plan. Through his lawyer Victor Orandi of Mathew and Partners Advocates, Raburu filed the case in the High Court but on May 9, 2023, it was transferred to the magistrate’s court. The court also gave Airtel Kenya 45 days before implementing the order and the company said it can appeal within the said period.
