From June 12 to 21, 2026, OAPI took part in the tenth edition of the Yaoundé International Business, SME and Partnership Fair (Promote2026), a major event dedicated to the promotion of the private sector and economic development in Africa.
A presence at the heart of supporting economic players
As a development agency and intellectual property office, OAPI took advantage of this strategic platform to listen to, raise awareness and guide the diverse visitors to its stand on the importance of intellectual property in the success of their projects and the growth of their business.
For a total of 10 days, our teams interacted with SMEs, start-ups, researchers, craftsmen, students, entrepreneurs, traders… creators from various fields.
The points of discussion focused on key themes such as:
- The protection of innovations, trademarks and other creations;
- The valuation of intangible assets;
- Strengthening the credibility of projects with investors;
- The advantages of the OAPI system for business development;
- Funding support mechanisms to transform an idea into a viable economic project.
- The various training courses offered by the Denis Ekani Academy of Intellectual Property (APIDE)
Intellectual property, a lever for competitiveness and growth
Through its participation, OAPI reaffirmed its role as a key partner for trade and business in structuring a dynamic, innovation-driven economy. Intellectual property is now seen as an essential tool for securing investments, fostering competitiveness, and encouraging value creation.
The Promote trade fair thus provided an ideal opportunity to demonstrate how a well-integrated intellectual property strategy can boost innovation and help accelerate the growth of African businesses.
Thanks to the visitors
OAPI is very pleased to conclude this 2026 edition, given the high attendance. These fruitful and constructive meetings reflect the growing interest of economic stakeholders in the challenges related to protecting and promoting innovation, as well as its mission to safeguard and promote it. OAPI extends its sincere thanks to all those who visited its stand and engaged with its experts.
Continuing the commitment beyond the trade show
