10 Years of Japan Funds-in-Trust – Africa and LDCs

November 13, 2018

On September 25, during the 58th series of meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO, an exhibition was organized to celebrate the 10th anniversary of WIPO Japan Funds-in-Trust for Africa and LDCs (Japan FIT/IP – Africa and LDCs) at the headquarters of WIPO. The event was followed by cultural performances and a reception.

Video: Highlights from the 10th anniversary celebrations of WIPO Japan Funds-in-Trust for Africa and LDCs | Photos on Flickr

Opening ceremony

At the beginning of the ceremony, Ms. Munakata explained the concept of the event. Following that, Mr. Francis Gurry, Director General of WIPO, H. E. Mr. Ken Okaniwa, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the International Organizations, and H.E. Mr. Omar Zniber, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva made opening remarks.

Francis Gurry

H.E. Mr. Ken Okaniwa

H.E. Mr. Omar Zniber

Ms. Naoko Munakata

Cultural performances

After the opening ceremony a fashion show took place. The performance was the result of collaborative work between a Cameroon-born designer and a well-known Japanese kimono maker.

Musical performances by Japanese and African musicians were also held.

Left: Performance by African musicians. Right: Performance of Japanese drums and guitars (Photos: WIPO/Martin)

Kagami-Biraki ceremony

Partners of Japan FIT/IP – Africa and LDCs from Japan, Africa and WIPO opened a sake-barrel together in a ritual that represents harmony and good fortune.