On 9 June 2025, in Hangzhou China, our Head of Practice, Ms. Brenda Matanga represented the firm at the prestigious International Intellectual Property Law Association (IIPLA) Conference. Ms. Matanga delivered a keynote address entitled: “Trademark Management: Global Strategies for Trademark Registration and Enforcement.”

It was more than a talk. It was a moment.

The Message- Africa is open for IP business

Ms. Matanga’s main message focused on the fact that Africa is not only open for IP business- it is already thriving with structured systems, that service the fast-growing economy, and the hunger for innovation in Africa.

Some of the key takeaways were as follows;

1. Africa is not a single market, but a diverse, dynamic ecosystem full of unexploited commercial opportunities- from fintech to consumer electronics to green transport.
2. Regional IP systems like ARIPO and OAPI are in place and offer centralized, cost-effective, and efficient routes for trademark protection, using just one currency, one language, and one attorney.
3. Chinese African trade is accelerating rapidly, with brands like Huawei, Tecno, and Infinix which are already deeply embedded in African markets- because they’ve understood the long game.
4. Building an awareness of the practical, profitable, and strategic nature of doing IP business in Africa. 

Why This Moment Mattered

As we celebrate our 15^th year of existence, this engagement confirmed that we are not observers in the African IP ecosystem; we are active custodians, grounded in experience!

We are intentional, well positioned, and prepared to guide businesses through the complex yet rewarding African IP terrain. We know the systems, its rhythms, its possibilities and we’re proud to stand as a bridge between global ambition and African opportunity. Above all, Africa is our home and we a proud to represent it on global stages.

As we move forward, in the years to come, our commitment is clear:

To continue elevating African voices in global IP conversations.

To empower international brands to navigate Africa’s legal landscape with confidence.

And to ensure that as the world moves forward, Africa moves forward too- not behind, but beside.