The 8th commission-mixed between the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) and the African Regional Organization for Intellectual Property (ARIPO) was held this Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Yaoundé, marking a new stage in cooperation between the two continental institutions.
High -level dialogue for the future of intellectual property in Africa
The opening ceremony was chaired by the general directors of the two organizations, Mr. Denis Bohoussou for the OAPI and Mr. Bemanya Twebaze for Aripo. In his speech, Mr. Twebaze praised the hospitality of his counterpart and particularly highlighted "the exceptional commitment [of Mr. Bohoussou] to work tirelessly to advance intellectual property in Africa".
This strategic meeting, prepared by a meeting of experts held the day before, made it possible to address several crucial subjects for the development of intellectual property on the African continent.
Significant advances and new perspectives
Among the protruding points of this commission-mixed is the announcement of the entry into force, since January 1, 2025, of the examination as to the bottom of the patents at the OAPI-a major reform which strengthens the quality and the value of the securities issued by the organization.
The discussions also focused on recent intellectual property developments at international and regional levels, as well as the substantial progress made in the harmonization of the registration and mutual recognition processes between the two offices.
A strategic alliance for the creation of a favorable environment
This mixed commission testifies to the desire of the two organizations to consolidate their cooperation established for several decades. Their common objective remains the creation of an environment favorable to the protection and enhancement of intellectual property rights, not only in their respective member states, but on the scale of the African continent.
OAPI and ARIPO thus reaffirm their determination to play an engine role in Africa's economic development by promoting innovation and creativity, essential pillars of sustainable and inclusive growth of the continent.
