Brenda Matanga

Head of Practice & Lead IP Counsel

Brenda Matanga is a distinguished legal professional renowned for her 19 years of experience in the legal field. She holds a Bachelor of Law Honours Degree (LLB) from the University of Zimbabwe and a Master's in Intellectual Property Law (LLM) from the University of Turin, Italy, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).

As a globally recognized legal practitioner, Brenda possesses extensive expertise in commercial law, with a specialized focus on intellectual property law. Her career is marked by her advisory and assistance to global companies on IP acquisition, prosecution, and strategy. She has played a pivotal role in resolving IP disputes and has been instrumental in establishing leading legal precedents in the field.

A tireless advocate for intellectual property in Zimbabwe, Brenda has significantly contributed to the industry's growth through her dedication to empowering start-ups with focused IP services and training in intellectual property law.

Her leadership journey includes serving as the former President of the Zimbabwe Institute of Patents and Trademarks Agents (ZIPTA) and as Chairperson of the Africa Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO) Working Group. Brenda has been at the forefront of advocating for and spearheading legislative reforms in IP laws within Zimbabwe and across the continent. Her leadership credentials are further solidified by her tenure as a former Councilor of the Law Society and her participation on various institutional and corporate boards in Zimbabwe.

On the international stage, Brenda is a member of the International Trademarks Association (INTA). Her contributions include serving on the "Unreal Campaign" , Brands for a Better Society committees, as well as her previous role on INTA’s Africa Global Advisory Council. She currently chairs the Consumer Association SubCommittee within the Building Bridges Committee of the INTA. Outside her legal practice Brenda consults on numerous regional projects on IP, Trade & Investment and delivering presentations at global platforms.

Brenda's achievements are marked by numerous accolades, cementing her status as a leading force in the field of intellectual property law. Her work continues to shape the future of IP legislation and protection both in Zimbabwe and internationally.