In June 2025, WIPO and the South African Judicial Education Institute (SAJEI) concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalizing ongoing collaborative efforts between WIPO and South Africa in support of intellectual property (IP) adjudication.
The MoU, which aims to develop cooperation and joint activities to strengthen the judicial system for IP protection in South Africa, follows significant engagement by the judiciary of South Africa in WIPO activities. South African judges, including Justice Mahube Molemela (President, Supreme Court of Appeal), Justice Wendy Hughes (Supreme Court of Appeal), and Justice Harshila Kooverjie (Gauteng Division, High Court), have participated in various editions of the WIPO Master Class on IP Adjudication. President Molemela further spoke in the 2024 WIPO IP Judges Forum, and she contributed to WIPO’s celebration of the 2024 International Day of Women Judges, sharing reflections on her journey in the judiciary.
WIPO and SAJEI recently collaborated in support of the July 2025 SAJEI Annual Judges Seminar, with WIPO identifying a judge experienced in IP adjudication, Mr. Justice James Mellor (High Court of England and Wales), to speak on patent infringement litigation.
The MoU between WIPO and SAJEI underscores their shared commitment to equipping the South African judiciary with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively adjudicate IP disputes. WIPO looks forward to continued cooperation to ensure a robust legal framework for IP rights in South Africa.