In most African countries, institutional mechanisms have
been established, the relevant policies put in place and activities undertaken
towards promoting intellectual property rights. This is because Africa has an
underwhelming record in creating and protecting IP.
Not enough importance has been given to the protecting the
ideas and data generated by Africans and African institutions. Protecting these
valuable resources is an essential step towards creating wealth and securing
opportunities for Africa’s youth. The key question now is how we can best use
the IP system to bring about lasting economic, social and cultural benefits for
all Africans
Global IP statistics paint a rather bleak picture. For
example, in 2013 not one African nation appeared among the top 20 countries
filing international patent applications using WIPO’s Patent Cooperation
Treaty.
In the global knowledge-based economy, intangible assets are
central to any country’s productivity and competitive advantage. The creation,
management and protection of knowledge are central to global economic
integration and wealth creation.
A strong IP regime provides incentives for producers or
researchers to develop new products and technologies. We need an urgent public
debate involving all stakeholders to frame new ways of promoting innovation and
creativity and capturing their economic value in Africa.
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