The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has taken a significant step forward in ensuring consumer confidence and combating counterfeiting with their revolutionary mobile app, Soma Label.
This free application empowers the public to verify the authenticity of various consumer products by checking the excise tax stamps affixed to them.
The app is designed to identify security features on these tax stamps and retrieve vital information linked to each product, providing users with instant peace of mind about the genuineness of their purchases.
As per Kenyan law, a wide range of products, including wines, spirits, beer, bottled water, juices, soda, energy drinks, cigarettes, and tobacco products, must bear excise tax stamps.
These stamps are equipped with a myriad of security features and come with unique encrypted data codes that are individually linked to a sophisticated track & trace system.
Here’s how Soma Label works:
Security Features Detection: Users simply need to launch the Soma Label app and focus their smartphone’s camera on the excise tax stamp affixed to the product. The app’s advanced algorithms then scrutinize the stamp to identify its security features, which are designed to be tamper-proof and resilient against counterfeiting.
Instant Authenticity Verification: Within seconds, the app provides an immediate result indicating whether the excise tax stamp is genuine or potentially counterfeit. This real-time verification offers consumers the confidence that they are purchasing legitimate and safe products.
Track & Trace Information Retrieval: For excise tax stamps confirmed as authentic, Soma Label goes a step further by accessing the track & trace system. The app retrieves specific information related to the scanned product, which may include details about its origin, manufacturing date, and other relevant data.
Anonymous Usage and Reporting: KRA ensures user privacy and encourages responsible reporting. All interactions with the Soma Label app are conducted anonymously, allowing users to confidently report any suspicious or fraudulent activities related to the products they have scanned.
The introduction of the Soma Label comes as a welcome move in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to safeguard consumers and combat the sale of counterfeit goods.
By harnessing the power of technology and mobile accessibility, the KRA aims to strengthen consumer trust in the marketplace and protect the revenues of legitimate businesses.
“This app puts the power of verification directly into the hands of consumers. It allows them to make informed choices while contributing to the fight against counterfeiting and illicit trade. We encourage all Kenyan citizens to download Soma Label and join us in ensuring a safer and more transparent marketplace.”
The Soma Label app is now available for download on both Android and iOS devices, offering a user-friendly experience that can benefit all citizens in their everyday purchases.
As the KRA continues its mission to promote tax compliance and consumer protection, Soma Label stands out as a valuable tool in the hands of the public.
Remember, the next time you pick up a bottle of wine or a pack of cigarettes, reach for your smartphone and use Soma Label to verify the product’s authenticity.