16 , 2026, will remain a landmark date for intellectual property in Mali. The city of Bamako and the Malian people experienced a day of particular intensity, marked by remarkable enthusiasm and major advances in the field of intellectual property. A memorable day that celebrates the culmination of a structuring process, led by the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) in close collaboration with the Malian authorities.
The inauguration of the CDPI: bringing intellectual property closer to users
The first highlight of the day was the official inauguration of the Intellectual Property Documentation Center (CDPI) in Bamako , which embodies the territorial strategy and promotion of intellectual property implemented by OAPI in its member states. Currently, 14 out of 17 CDPIs are already operational.
Through this initiative, OAPI reaffirms a clear objective: to bring its services closer to users, facilitate access to specialized, reliable, and tailored information, while strengthening the intellectual property culture at the national level. The CDPI in Bamako is now positioned as a strategic tool serving Malian inventors, creators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and students.
Bogolan officially recognized as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
This same day was also marked by a highly symbolic event for the cultural and economic heritage of Mali : the official handover of the certificate of registration as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for " Bogolan " .
Bogolan, an iconic fabric of Mali, now benefits from official recognition that protects its origin, authenticity, and ancestral know-how. This label provides a powerful boost to value, both in national and international markets, and represents a major opportunity for local artisans and producers.
Promotion of Improved Traditional Medicines: the “Balembo Syrup” project
Another significant development of the day was the signing of the Objectives and Performance Contract for the industrial production project of the Improved Traditional Medicine (ITM) " Balembo Syrup " along with its collective branding . The syrup is a cough suppressant, primarily used as a sedative to treat persistent coughs.
This step marks an important recognition of the efforts undertaken to structure, standardize and promote medicines derived from traditional Malian pharmacopoeia, in compliance with the required quality standards.
A strong call for the collective organization of producers
Addressing the producers concerned, the Director General of OAPI, Denis BOHOUSSOU , delivered a clear and mobilizing message:
"I urge you to organize yourselves collectively around a shared strategy for production, quality control, commercial promotion, and the defense of your rights. It is this cohesion and collective rigor that will allow your products to excel from generation to generation and conquer new markets."
An incentive for collective structuring, guaranteeing sustainability, competitiveness and the transmission of know-how.
OAPI-Mali cooperation is excellent
These advances are part of a dynamic of strengthened institutional cooperation between OAPI and the Republic of Mali. They follow the recent visit, last March, to OAPI headquarters, by the Minister in charge of Trade and Industry, OAPI Administrator for Mali, Moussa Alassane Diallo , who was also present during the activities in Bamako.
The Director General welcomed the Malian Government's continued commitment to promoting intellectual property, mentioning initiatives such as Brand Week , while requesting enhanced support in the context of the Transition.
This commitment was confirmed by the Malian Prime Minister, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga , who received the OAPI delegation in audience the day before.
On this occasion, he reaffirmed Mali's commitment to promoting local skills, protecting its cultural heritage and strengthening its national economy through the judicious use of intellectual property.
