BISHOFTU – The Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) has revealed plans to become a leading example in Intellectual Property (IP) development in Africa within the next five years.
To enhance public awareness and foster national interest in IP exploitation, EIPA organized a one-day training program for journalists and editors.
During the opening speech, EIPA Deputy Director General Endalew Mosesa emphasized the authority’s commitment to sustainably protecting IP across Ethiopia. He highlighted key focus areas, including research, legal protection, and IP development.
“Despite EIPA’s efforts to align IP protection and development with national interests and the needs of creative owners, inadequate awareness remains a significant challenge,” he acknowledged.
Endalew further explained that EIPA is collaborating closely with nationwide science and technology bureaus in Bahir Dar, Jimma, and Hawassa, as well as with the Amhara, Oromia, and Sidama states, to advance IP development. The authority is also providing short training programs and working with universities to strengthen IP protection.
EIPA’s Patent and Technology Transfer Lead Executive Getachew Tafa underscored the significant economic benefits reaped by developed countries through strong IP sectors. He cited the United States, which allocates 3% of its annual GDP to research and development related to patent rights, and China, which allocates 4.7%.
Getachew noted that 197 countries are members of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), which administers 29 international treaties. He emphasized that intellectual property plays a crucial role in boosting agriculture, fair trade, creativity, technology, and other sectors.
The training program covered key IP protection areas, including trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
It is worth noting that Ethiopia joined WIPO in 2003, and the country is actively working to enhance its international competitiveness and participation in the global IP landscape.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 3 JANUARY 2025
