The EUIPO and OAPI organise the third edition of the ‘Africa GI Training’

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), as the international registration authority responsible for managing craft and industrial geographical indications (GIs) in the European Union, is committed to promoting GI systems globally, particularly in regions like Africa, China, India, and Latin America.

The EUIPO, collaborated with the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) to organise the third edition of the ‘Africa GI Training’ from 19 to 27 November 2024, at the OAPI head office in Yaoundé. This initiative, part of the EU-funded Intellectual Property and Innovation in Africa (AfrIPI) project, was implemented through the Denis Ekani Intellectual Property Academy - #APIDE.

The eight-day training program brought together actors from both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors in the OAPI Member States, including facilitators, producers, legal experts, and economists. The training aimed to equip them with essential knowledge to effectively navigate the GI system, protect regional products, and foster local economic growth. Participants presented case studies on GI products and potential GI products from their respective countries, prompting group discussions and practical exchanges to enhance the development potential of their local products.

Key aspects of the training included a field visit to the Interprofessional Council of Cocoa and Coffee (CICC) in Mbalmayo, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience. Moreover, participants were trained to facilitate knowledge sharing by organising national seminars upon returning to their respective countries. In addition, the certificate award ceremony was attended by administrative representatives from OAPI Member States. During the closing ceremony, Mr. Denis BOHOUSSOU, OAPI Director General, emphasised the importance of GIs in local economic development – ‘Geographical indications play a vital role in safeguarding our cultural heritage, reducing poverty, and securing the sustainability of local products. This training has better prepared Member States to promote and preserve these valuable assets.’

Through initiatives like the ‘Africa GI Training,’ the EUIPO, the OAPI, and relevant stakeholders continue to emphasise the vital role of GIs in local economic development, in support of the objectives 5 and 6 of the African Union's continental strategy on GIs. This strategy encourages partners to enhance training and awareness programs and to promote sustainable practices in Africa.

The EUIPO's commitment to promoting GI systems is based on its expertise and best practices, built on years of cooperation with the European Commission (DG AGRI) and regional intellectual property offices. The EUIPO aims to create a fair business environment while ensuring that GIs are legally recognised and protected across Member States. By sharing its expertise and promoting GI systems, the EUIPO supports the development of local economies and the protection of regional products.