The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in cooperation with the Registrar General’s Office (RGO), Ministry of Justice and Law, organized the IP Weeks Initiative in African Countries in Maseru, Kingdom of Lesotho, from June 10 to 13, 2025, with support from Funds-In-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global (FIT/Japan IP Global).
Two Tailored Workshops
The IP Week featured two consecutive two-day workshops designed for distinct target groups: (1) universities and R&D institutions, and (2) startups, young entrepreneurs, and local businesses. A total of 141 participants took part, along with government officials, faculty, researchers, creative industry professionals, and women-led businesses.
The workshops proceeding included technical presentations by international and local experts on various aspects of IP and their interfaces with institutions and local businesses. The objective was to introduce participants to the institutional IP policy framework and its usefulness for the management of innovation and creativity. Presentations also examined the economic potential of effectively using the IP system by local businesses for the protection of products and services and for enhancing business competitiveness.
High-Level Participation and National Commitment
Workshops I and II were officially opened by the Principal Secretary, Mr. Lira Ralebese, and the Hon. Minister of Justice and Law, Mr. Richard Ramoeletsi. In his remarks, Mr. Ramoeletsi, quoting the WIPO Director General, noted that “IP is a crucial driver of innovation and economic growth, acting as a fuel for progress.” He expressed appreciation for WIPO’s initiative and emphasized the importance of IP in supporting the youth and local businesses of Lesotho. Both dignitaries called for WIPO’s continued support for impact-oriented projects in Lesotho as a follow-up to the IP Week.
Mr. Kunihiko Fushimi, Director of International Classifications and Standards Division, FIT/Japan IP Global’s Fund Manager at WIPO emphasized the impact of this IP Week and the significance of support this initiative. Mr. Daniul Islam, Counsellor in the Division for Africa of WIPO outlined the objectives of the IP Week. He also affirmed WIPO’s continuous support and indicated that WIPO envisaged undertaking follow-up impact-oriented projects with relevant stakeholders upon successful completion of the workshops.
Interactive Panels and Local Impact
Lively Q&A sessions and interactive panel discussions enabled participants to explore challenges and receive practical guidance on effectively utilizing IP. Topics included strategies for disclosing inventions in research publications, managing medical and life science innovations, and mobilizing resources and support for technology transfer offices (TTOs).
A highlight of the week was the participation of the Hon. Member of Parliament, inventor, and holder of five patents, Ms. Mampho Alina Tjabane. She shared her innovation and entrepreneurial journey. She volunteered to join the panel discussion and informed participants about her ongoing efforts to foster grassroots innovation, including a monthly flea market-style exposition for local businesses, organized in collaboration with the RGO.
Inspired by the IP Week’s proceedings, several participants requested on-the-spot support to register their trademarks during the workshops. The RGO responded by bringing in the Trademark Journal and application forms on the final day. A live demonstration was conducted to guide participating entrepreneurs in understanding the practical formalities of the trademark application process and the interested businesses were enlisted for the next steps.
Division for Africa of WIPO remain dedicated to supporting African countries in their journey towards a stronger and more dynamic IP landscape.