OAPI – Launch of Pilot Project to Test a New Online System Delayed
In December 2020, the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) announced the launch of a pilot project to test a new online filing system (e-filing platform). The initial plan was to test the system amongst 6 firms (including our local Associate office) prior to a wider launch. However, the launch has been delayed, largely due to issues with the software system used for the pilot project, which proved to be complex and not user-friendly. OAPI has advised that a second trial phase may go into operation before the close of this year.
Key takeaways from Kenya’s new Intellectual Property Bill
The administration of intellectual property in Kenya is currently fragmented. The Kenya Industrial Property Institute (“KIPI”) administers patents, trade marks, utility models and industrial desig...
July 21 2026
ARIPO advances Digital IP Services in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone recently hosted an ARIPO Online Services Sensitisation Workshop aimed at increasing awareness and adoption of digital intellectual property services. The workshop, organised in collaborat...
July 16 2026
Constitutional Court Delivers Landmark but Incomplete Copyright Ruling. Parliament Must Now Seize the Opportunity to Modernise South Africa’s Copyright Law for the AI Era
JOHANNESBURG — On 26 June 2026, the Constitutional Court of South Africa handed down its long-awaited judgment in Ex Parte President of the Republic of South Africa: In re Constitutionality of the C...
July 13 2026

