The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), with financial support from the Japan Patent Office (JPO) through the Japan Funds-in-Trust Industrial Property Global, jointly organized the Regional Meeting on the Development of a Regional Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) Network in Harare, Zimbabwe, on June 29–30, 2026.
The meeting brought together representatives from ARIPO Member States to review progress in developing national TISC networks, exchange experiences, and strengthen regional cooperation to support innovation and technology transfer across Africa. Discussions also covered the use of patent information to foster innovation, updates on WIPO’s Global TISC Program, implementation of the ARIPO Strategic Plan, and development of the Regional TISC Action Plan.
National TISC Network Developments
Representatives from more than 20 ARIPO Member States presented updates on their national TISC networks, highlighting achievements such as the expansion of TISC host institutions, increased capacity-building activities, stronger partnerships with universities and research institutions, and growing support for innovators and entrepreneurs. Participants also identified common challenges, including the need for additional training, sustainable financing, enhanced commercialization support, and greater public awareness of intellectual property.
Strengthening the ARIPO TISC Network
The meeting reaffirmed the important role of TISCs in promoting innovation, facilitating access to patent information, and supporting technology transfer and commercialization. It also underscored the value of continued collaboration among WIPO, ARIPO, JPO, and Member States in strengthening innovation ecosystems and advancing sustainable economic development across Africa.