WIPO, in cooperation with the Japan Patent Office (JPO), hosted an exhibition booth at ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9, August 20–22, 2025) in Yokohama, Japan. The booth showcased WIPO initiatives in Africa supported by Funds-In-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global (FIT/Japan IP Global) and attracted considerable attention from participants.
WIPO Highlighted IP Initiatives in Africa supported by the FIT Japan IP Global
The booth featured posters and videos introducing various initiatives in Africa supported by the FIT Japan IP Global, such as empowering women entrepreneurs, offering MIP scholarships at African universities, and supporting the digitization of African IP offices. WIPO Japan Office (WJO) staff were on hand to provide detailed and attentive explanations about these initiatives, which helped visitors gain a deeper understanding of the programs. A journal featuring success stories of African women in agribusiness — highlighting the successful outcomes of mentoring project implemented by WIPO’s Division for Africa with support from FIT Japan IP Global—was also distributed and well received by visitors.
Boosting Awareness and Building Connections
The WIPO booth attracted many visitors, reflecting strong interest. The exhibition not only facilitated networking among participants but also broadened understanding of the role and importance of IP in Africa. The event contributed to greater visibility of WIPO’s support initiatives in Africa and reinforced ongoing efforts to promote the strategic use of IP for sustainable development across the African continent.
Visitor Feedback
Visitors to the WIPO booth expressed strong interest in the insightful presentations and materials. Many highlighted the importance of IP in supporting sustainable development and empowering entrepreneurs, SMEs, and youth across Africa. Some of their comments included:
- “I learned about WIPO for the first time at this booth. Since I recognize the importance of IP, I would like to continue learning through the WIPO website.”
- “When it comes to technological development, IP is inseparable. It is truly commendable that initiatives are being undertaken to support IP in Africa.”
- “The mentoring system, where entrepreneurs supported by mentors go on to become new mentors themselves, is a sustainable initiative that directly reaches individuals, and it is remarkable.”
Background -TICAD9
TICAD9 was held from August 20 to 22, 2025, in Yokohama, Japan. Since 1993, TICAD has been led by the Government of Japan and co-hosted by the United Nations (UN), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the African Union Commission (AUC), and the World Bank. The event brings together a wide range of participants, including leaders, government officials, business representatives, media, and other key stakeholders from Japan and across Africa. To seize this opportunity, WIPO, in cooperation with the JPO, set up an exhibition booth at TICAD9 related events. The initiative was supported by FIT Japan IP Global.