The BMatanga IP Attorneys trademarks team attended the  ARIPO and AfrIPI technical training on trademarks and engagement with IP agents of  ARIPO member states which was held in Harare recently. In attendance was our Team Lead, Ms Brenda Matanga, who was  representing Zimbabwe together with  the selected Zimbabwean Registry representative and our two  associate attorneys, Kudzai Mushangwe and Chido Gezimati who represented the firm. This pivotal event was held from September 3-5, 2024, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of trade mark examiners from ARIPO Member States. This technical training was a significant step towards improving the quality, examination standards  and predictability of trade mark examination outcomes within the region.

The primary objective of the training was to bolster the examination skills of trade mark examiners. By focusing on the intricacies of trade mark laws and the latest examination techniques, the training aimed to ensure that examiners are well-equipped to handle the complexities of trade mark applications. This, in turn, is expected to lead to more consistent and reliable examination outcomes, fostering greater confidence in the ARIPO IP system.

A unique aspect of this training was the active engagement between experts and professionals from across the continent to share insights and best practices in trademark prosecution and enforcement. The training provided a platform for discussing practical challenges surrounding the ARIPO trademark system, revealing nuances and challenges that appear in practice. Examiners and IP agents alike benefited from the exchange of ideas and best practices globally. Such collaborative learning environments are crucial for fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among IP professionals in the region.

Our commitment to Service Excellence

Our participation in these  discussions, networking sessions, and hands-on training exercises aided in our attorneys gaining valuable expertise and  industry connections. By engaging with examiners and fellow IP agents from ARIPO member and non-member states, our team gained insight into the examiners’ perspective, common pitfalls, as well as strategies for successful prosecution. This enhanced understanding and knowledge acquired  will enable us to better serve and advise clients, ensuring they receive comprehensive guidance and effective representation. BMATANGA IP Attorneys reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional service and expertise to clients. Over the years, we have strove to provide practical, cost effective and value adding legal advice to Clients with an interest in obtaining  regional protection of their IP rights in ARIPO. As we continue striving to be the IP firm of choice, our  clients can trust and rely on our  knowledge, skills and expertise to navigate the complexities of the  intellectual property law landscape in Africa.

Looking Ahead

The successful completion of this training marks a significant milestone in ARIPO’s ongoing efforts to strengthen intellectual property rights within its member states. By continuously investing in the professional development of trade mark examiners and engaging with IP agents, ARIPO is paving the way for a more robust and reliable IP system that can support innovation and economic growth across the region.

Attending the ARIPO technical training was not just an educational experience but also a step towards building a more cohesive and efficient intellectual property framework in Africa. Knowledge sharing platforms like this will undoubtedly contribute to the continued improvement of trade mark examination processes and the overall IP landscape in the ARIPO region.

We are part of the IP conversations in the region.

BMatanga IP Attorneys for Africa!