Africa - Blog

Discover how South Africa is advancing renewable energy through innovation, patents, and supportive government programs like REIPPPP. Learn how IP rights and global initiatives are empowering inventors and SMEs to drive sustainable growth in the green energy sector.

Ethiopia's food sector powers its economy but faces funding and market challenges. Discover how SMEs can drive growth through smart use of intellectual property—like trademarks, patents, and trade secrets—to boost innovation, secure investment, and expand into global markets.

Rwanda boosts its startup ecosystem with a new Intellectual Property Law, strengthening patent and trademark protection to foster innovation, attract investment, and support global expansion.

Nigeria’s media industry is booming, with Nollywood and Afrobeats driving global recognition. With streaming, AI, and increased investment fueling growth, the new Copyright Act aims to tackle piracy and protect creatives.

Geographical indications (GIs) are transforming Africa’s local economies, protecting unique products, and boosting market value. While OAPI leads with six registered GIs, Nigeria is drafting its first GI law, paving the way for global recognition and economic growth.

Your domain name is more than just an address—it's your digital identity. Without protection, cybercriminals can hijack it, steal sensitive data, or tarnish your brand's reputation. From high-profile hijackings to phishing scams, the risks are real. Stay secure and safeguard your online presence.

AI is reshaping Africa’s innovation and IP landscape. Explore how nations leverage AI strategies to boost innovation, address risks, and foster ethical, inclusive development.

Counterfeiting in Nigeria endangers public safety, business reputations, and economic growth. Explore challenges, regulatory gaps, and innovative strategies to combat this threat.

Ghana's thriving innovation hub empowers SMEs with funding, training, and policies like YouStart and Ghana CARES, driving growth and solidifying its role as a West African leader.

The European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) led the discussion on how IP contributes to sustainable growth and development. 

The AfrIPI team, led by Deputy Project Leader Carlos Lleo, engaged in the EU-Ghana Business Forum to discuss with stakeholders the significance of intellectual property (IP) in business operations.

On 2 July 2024, Nigerian and European business leaders, policymakers and institutional stakeholders converged in Abuja to identify and explore investment opportunities during the 9th European Union-Nigeria Business Forum, themed ‘Investing in Jobs and a Sustainable Future’.

As of March 2024, the European IP Helpdesk and International IP SME Helpdesks have been fully integrated into the Single Digital Gateway and is accessible through the Assistance Service Finder.

From 17 to 25 February 2024, AfrIPI and the Africa IP SME Helpdesk participated in the ninth International Trade Fair for Business, SMEs and Partnerships in Yaoundé (PROMOTE), Cameroon. 

International IP SME Helpdesks' Stakeholders Conference Explores Role of Intellectual Property in SMEs' Global Ventures.

It is essential that SMEs consider protecting their creations through intellectual property and efficiently manage these assets to reap the most from their investment in Europe.

The Africa IP SME Helpdesk, together with the Netherlands Business Hub Kenya (NLBH) organised the ‘Seminar on opportunities for EU SMEs to leverage intellectual property rights for business growth in Kenya and abroad’.

Check our new video on the services provided by the International IP SME Helpdesk

In recent years, Africa has transformed in the area of commerce. As African entrepreneurs and foreign investors seize their share at an early stage, it is crucial to recognise the pivotal role intellectual property (IP) plays in this dynamic landscape.