AfrIPI Annual Project Steering Committee gathers in Alicante for its fourth meeting
As the AfrIPI Annual Project Steering Committee gathered in Alicante for its fourth meeting on 15 December 2023, anticipation was high for the outcomes and discussions that will shape the project’s future. This meeting marked a significant milestone as stakeholders came together in person to assess progress and outline plans for the upcoming year.
The committee’s primary focus was evaluating the success criteria and dimensions of the project’s technical assistance. This evaluation is meant to strengthen national and regional intellectual property (IP) institutions while advancing collaborative efforts between the European Union (EU) and Africa. By assessing the impact of activities carried out throughout the year, the committee gained valuable insights into the long-term benefits generated for all stakeholders involved.
A key meeting highlight was the approval of the fourth annual work plan to be implemented from 1 January to 1 February 2025, covering a wide range of activities related to IP rights. The committee ensured that the work plan effectively addresses the participating countries’ needs and challenges.
The meeting featured several agenda items, including a 2023 Annual Work Plan exchange. Committee members shared updates and insights regarding the successful execution of the previous year’s plan. This exchange of information allowed stakeholders to gain valuable knowledge and learn from each other’s experiences. Furthermore, the committee discussed the 2024 Annual Work Plan in detail. This discussion will outline the coming year’s objectives, strategies, and activities, this is to enhance IP frameworks and further promote cooperation between the EU and African nations.
As part of the collaborative efforts, the African Union/DARBE extended invitations to OAPI, ARIPO, and the EU for an ad hoc meeting of the GI Consultative Committee. This committee is responsible for overseeing the progress of the African Union’s Continental Strategy for Geographical Indications in Africa, which spans from 2018 to 2023. The purpose of this meeting was to resume the discussions and brainstorming sessions aimed at shaping the future of the strategy and identifying areas for further improvement should it be renewed.
The outcomes of the AfrIPI Annual Project Steering Committee’s meeting in Alicante, Spain are expected to shape the project’s future trajectory. The committee aims to drive IP advancements and foster a thriving ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders by evaluating progress, setting goals, and approving the annual work plan.
With its comprehensive range of activities, the approved work plan for 2024 is crucial in promoting innovation and economic growth and protecting cross-border IP rights. The AfrIPI Annual Project Steering Committee remains dedicated to its mission of collaboration, institution-building, and promoting the importance of IP in the EU-African context.