EIPA Hosts Pivotal Conference on the PCT
On 14 March 2025, EIPA hosted a pivotal conference on the PCT in Bishoftu. The conference brought together key stakeholders from government and non-government sectors.
EIPA underscored its commitment to becoming a signatory to the PCT and has identified this initiative as its next major undertaking. With Ethiopia’s plans to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) by 2026 and ongoing efforts to increase global integration, this move is expected to receive strong support from Parliament.
A representative from our Associate Office, Lidet Abebe Tizazu, also attended the event. Pictured below, from left to right, is Mr. Getachew Tafa (Head of Patent and Technology Transfer, EIPA), Dr. Biruk Haile (Addis Ababa University, Law School), Ato Endalu Mosisa (Deputy Director General, EIPA), Ms Lidet Abebe Tizazu (Partner, Adams & Adams Ethiopia Office) and, Ato Tadesse Worku (Traditional Knowledge and Geographic Indications Lead Executive officer, EIPA).
We will continue to monitor developments regarding Ethiopia’s accession to the PCT and provide updates in upcoming newsletters.

Niger accedes to the Marrakesh Treaty
The Republic of Niger, a member state of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), has acceded to the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, V...
August 19 2026
OAPI highlights IP’s role in African craft innovation
At the Ninth International Handicrafts Fair of Cameroon (SIARC 2026), held in Yaoundé from 27 July to 5 August, the OAPI showcased the importance of IP protection in promoting innovation and competit...
August 19 2026
Côte d’Ivoire hosts fourth Africa GI training programme
OAPI has launched the fourth edition of the Africa GI Training programme in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, bringing together 18 participants from 13 member states. The programme aims to strengthen experti...
August 19 2026

