The Republic of Rwanda deposited its instrument of accession to the Harare Protocol which governs patent and design filings in ARIPO on 22 May 2011. This means that Rwanda can be designated as a member state in an ARIPO patent or design application after22 August 2011.

Rwanda’s accession, brings to a total of 17, the number of countries that can de designated in an ARIPO patent or industrial design application. Rwanda has recently acceded to the Patent Co-Operation Treaty (PCT) and the Hague Agreement and this seems to signal Rwanda’s commitment to providing effective protection to IP rights and is an indication that the Government realises that IP can play a significant role in Rwanda’s economic recovery.

For further information on patent or design filings in ARIPO or any African countries please contact nickyg@adamsasdams.co.za

Featured Act Patents Act 57 of 1978
To provide for the registration and granting of patents for inventions and for matters connected therewith.
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Nicky Garnett
Head of Africa Patents
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Tel: +27 (0) 12 432 6261
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Adams & Adams is a B-BBEE LEVEL 4 Contributor

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The firm practises directly in several Southern African countries and through long-established associates in others.

Rwanda joins ARIPO5/07/2011

Rwanda joins ARIPO
5/07/2011