Spearheading the Future of Intellectual Property in Kenya: A CEO Consultative Meeting on the Proposed National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy

Today, we held a consultative meeting on the report of the proposed National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy (NIPPS) that is aimed at laying groundwork for Kenya's national IP policy and strategy for the period 2023-2027.

The Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, Dr. Robi Mbugua Ngjoroge, welcomed Chief Executive Officers of lead government agencies that has been spearheading the IP policy and strategy formulation. They included Dr. Tonny Omwansa from the Kenya National Innovation Agency, Mr. John Onyango, the Managing Director of the Kenya Industrial Property Institute, and Ms. Gentrix Juma representing the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Services.

Also in attendance was Professor Tom Oganda, the lead consultant from the Africa Centre for Trade Studies (ACTS), entrusted with overseeing the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)-sponsored project.

“The proposed strategy and policy will be stakeholder driven. We expect contribution from all stakeholders from government agencies, academic institutions, industry leaders, and legal experts to participate in charting the course for Kenya's IP future” Prof. Oganda.

The discussions delved into the proposed methodologies of the project and proposed strategic lines of IP protection, enforcement, innovation and promotion tailored to Kenya's unique socio-economic landscape. The CEO’s emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy that not only safeguards intellectual property rights but also fosters a conducive environment for creativity and entrepreneurship to flourish.

Dr. Mbugua Ngjoroge who chaired the meeting emphasized the critical role of collaboration among government agencies, echoing the sentiment shared by his colleagues. Together, they recognized the need for a cohesive approach to IP policy and strategy, one that transcended bureaucratic silos and fostered synergy among stakeholders.