BMatanga IP Attorneys proudly participated in the 49th session of the ARIPO Administrative Council, held in Accra, Ghana, from 17–20 November 2025. This session marked a critical milestone in the ongoing evolution of intellectual property frameworks across Africa, with significant discussions on the Banjul Protocol on Marks, the new Model Law on Geographical Indications, and the advancement of ARIPO’s digital modernization initiatives.

As an accredited ARIPO agent, BMatanga IP Attorneys has been closely tied to the organization since our firm’s inception. Our involvement has been further strengthened by the leadership of Miss. Brenda Matanga  the recent outgoing Chair of ARIPO’s Working Group were she served for over 6 years. Her role has been instrumental in shaping  the regional IP framework, ensuring that ARIPO member states adopt modern, harmonized, and effective intellectual property laws.

Miss. Matanga’s attendance at the 49th Administrative Council session underscored our commitment to remaining at the forefront of regional IP developments. During the session, she engaged directly with ARIPO officials, member state representatives, and fellow IP practitioners to discuss the latest reforms, operational challenges, and opportunities for digital transformation within ARIPO’s systems. 

In addition to attending the formal sessions, Miss. Matanga met with the firm’s colleagues at Integrated Legal Consultants in Accra, providing an important platform for strategic discussions, team alignment, and planning for client advisory services across multiple jurisdictions. These meetings reinforced our collaborative approach to ensuring clients receive unparalleled guidance in navigating ARIPO protocols and procedures.

The 49th ARIPO Administrative Council session focused on several pivotal areas:

• Banjul Protocol on Marks: Members reviewed comprehensive amendments designed to modernize procedural rules, streamline registration processes, and align terminology with international IP standards.
• Model Law on Geographical Indications: The Council discussed the draft GI law prepared with input from member states and international partners, including the EUIPO aimed at strengthening protection for locally produced goods.
• Digital Transformation Projects: ARIPO continues to implement cloud-based solutions and ERP systems, enabling online filing, better stakeholder engagement, and increased operational efficiency across member states.

BMatanga IP Attorneys’ close involvement in these meetings  coupled with our firm’s experience, ensures that our clients benefit from unmatched expertise in managing IP rights throughout Africa. From securing patent filings and trademarks to advising on geographical indications, our team provides insights that are both practical and strategically aligned with regional and international IP frameworks.

Our presence at the ARIPO Administrative Council session highlights not only our dedication to client service but also our commitment to supporting strong, modern, and harmonized intellectual property systems across Africa. Through active participation in ARIPO’s programs and continuous collaboration with regional stakeholders, BMatanga IP Attorneys remains a trusted partner for innovators and businesses seeking to protect and grow their intellectual property portfolios on the continent and beyond.