Technical support to the development of the legal framework for GIs

Having adequate legal frameworks in place is essential for protecting Geographical Indications (GIs). In view of the need of further-fine tuning and harmonisation of national and regional GI legislation in Africa, AfrIPI will provide technical assistance to identify gaps in existing GI legislation in targeted African countries/ regions, and issue recommendations for addressing these gaps. It will also assist to strengthen an effective institutional environment as regards GI protection.

Where a given country does not have any legal framework to support or protect GIs and/or there is limited knowledge on the GI concept, AfrIPI will also organise capacity building and awareness workshops for policymakers, legislators and other relevant stakeholders on the concept of GIs and how to apply them to grasp the benefits of the GIs protection. These workshops will create a favorable environment for GIs protection in the country and increase the stakeholders’ willingness to take ownership of the drafting of the legislation to support and protect GIs.