Intellectual Property plan for Africa delayed
5/12/2008

For the past two years work has been in progress to establish a Pan-African Intellectual Property Organisation (PAIPO) to promote co-operation between countries on the African continent on issues pertaining to intellectual property. The work was co-ordinated by the African Ministerial Commission on Science and Technology (AMCOST).

An early African Union (AU) Workshop to discuss the possible harmonisation of certain areas of law within the AU took place in South Africa at the end of 2006 and was attended by Adams & Adams Consultant Esmé du Plessis, vice chair of the Standing Advisory Committee on Intellectual Property (IP) of the Minister of Trade and Industry.

Although there is no clarity yet on the structure, functions and powers of PAIPO, mention has been made of the creation of a central registry of certain IP for Africa. It is also expected that the organisation will promote the protection of traditional knowledge and indigenous genetic resources.

At a recent meeting of the steering committee of AMCOST in Abuja, Nigeria, it was decided to refer back the draft blueprint for revision and refinement. The hope was expressed that the final plan would be ready for submission to the African Heads of State summit during 2009.

Esmé du Plessis
Patent Consultant
EDP@adamsadams.co.za