The Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 2025 once again celebrated the excellence of African innovation thanks to the unwavering support of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI). At this 50th edition, held from April 9 to 13, 2025, inventors supported by OAPI brilliantly represented the organization on the global innovation stage.
Gabon at the forefront of international innovation
True to its tradition of excellence, OAPI selected and supported a high-quality Gabonese invention this year, which won over the international jury. Three talented Gabonese co-inventors were awarded a gold medal and a diploma of honor for their prototype: the "Smart Electricity Meter and its Management System".
This prestigious distinction goes to ONGONO SOW Amadou Louis Fabrice , BADINGA BADINGA Ulrich Fabrice and OMENGUE Joel , who for the occasion were accompanied by DEBBE Salem ZEINE , Head of the Patents and Plant Varieties Service at OAPI.
A cutting-edge technological solution to transform the African energy sector
The award-winning smart meter stands out for its multiple innovative features that address the continent's current energy challenges:
• Enhanced security : Sophisticated detection of network status, theft attempts, and fraud
• Optimized management : Real-time notifications and intuitive user interface via mobile app and USSD service
• Cutting-edge technology : Artificial Intelligence algorithms enabling accurate consumption predictions
• Intelligent reporting : Detailed analysis and visualization of consumption data
• Financial flexibility : Electricity credit options with prepaid or postpaid billing tailored to local needs
This innovation represents a major step forward for the democratization of access to electricity in Africa, combining cutting-edge technology and practical solutions adapted to local realities.
OAPI: a catalyst for innovation serving the development of member states
This new gold medal adds to the already impressive list of achievements of African inventors supported by OAPI at the Geneva Motor Show. This success testifies to the Organization's ongoing commitment to promoting technological innovation as a driver of development in its member states.
By supporting these talents on the international stage, OAPI fully fulfills its mission: to reveal to the world the inventive potential and creative genius that abound in its member states. These innovations provide concrete and ingenious solutions to the daily challenges faced by African populations, while simultaneously positioning OAPI member countries on the global innovation map.
The remarkable success of Gabonese inventors in Geneva reinforces OAPI's commitment to promoting the strategic use of intellectual property for development purposes. The implementation of
