OAPI Kicks Off 2026 with Strengthened Governance
Important Topics
OAPI announces key governance and innovation developments for 2026.
OAPI Kicks Off 2026 with Strengthened Governance
OAPI closed out 2025 with a series of important developments aimed at strengthening intellectual property protection across its 17 member states. At an expert‑level meeting held in Brazzaville ahead of the Organisation’s 65th Board of Directors session, delegates highlighted key achievements from the past year, including updates to Annexes I and II of the Bangui Agreement, the successful launch of the OAPI Brand Awards, and new programmes supporting women innovators. At the conclusion of the Board session in December, Côte d’Ivoire assumed the presidency of OAPI’s Board of Directors, taking over from Congo‑Brazzaville.
As the organisation moves into 2026, it appears that OAPI has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing innovation and ensuring a unified IP framework.
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

