Botswana reiterates commitment to Intellectual Property
Botswana reiterates commitment to Intellectual Property
Botswana recently reaffirmed its dedication to intellectual property (IP) at the 66th series of meetings of the General Assemblies of WIPO Member States. Represented by Mpho Mogobe, Charge D’affaires and Deputy Permanent Representative of the Botswana Permanent Mission, CIPA Acting Registrar General Timothy Moalusi, and Copyright Administrator Keitseng Monyatsi, the delegation extended congratulations to WIPO’s leadership and secretariat for their efforts in promoting IP globally.
A significant point of discussion was Botswana’s peaceful change of power following a historic general election in October 2024. The new government has underscored the high importance of IP in its national agenda, signaling a continued commitment to strengthening Botswana’s IP system and contributing to IP development across Africa and worldwide.
Botswana lauded WIPO for the recent adoption of the Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge Associated with Genetic Resources, and the Riyadh Design Law Treaty.
These treaties are seen as crucial advancements in harmonizing and strengthening IP systems globally. To ensure their effective implementation, Botswana called upon the WIPO Secretariat to organize comprehensive capacity-building programs in member states.
Like many developing nations, Botswana is actively working to build a robust IP system for the benefit of its citizens and economy. The delegation expressed gratitude for WIPO’s ongoing support, which has led to significant growth in Botswana’s IP policy and legislative environment, diverse human capacity building, and the implementation of technological solutions. This support has enabled Botswana to undertake projects that translate IP into tangible results for its communities.
Notably, WIPO’s assistance has been instrumental in Botswana’s broader goal of leveraging technology by providing online IP services. This has enhanced customer experience, increased efficiency in service delivery, and is expected to boost revenue generation.
Further support has been extended to projects involving Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and the application of IP in traditional medicines, both of which have made a substantial impact on these vital sectors. Botswana stands ready to collaborate with WIPO and offer support to other African countries in their IP development journeys.
Despite these positive developments, Botswana voiced concerns regarding the slow progress in several standing committees, including the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights (SCCR) and the Standing Committee on Patents.
The delegation also highlighted the persistent imbalance in geographical representation within WIPO’s workforce. While appreciating the “Careers in IP Project,” of which Botswana is a beneficiary, the delegation urged WIPO to intensify efforts to address the underrepresentation of African nationals.
