Liberia’s LIPO Director General Engages with African IP Leaders on AI and Digital Transformation at ARIPO Conference

The Director General of the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO), Madam Garmai Koboi, represented Liberia at the 2026 Heads of Intellectual Property Offices Conference of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), held on May 18-19 in Maseru, Lesotho.

This high-level conference, jointly organized by ARIPO and the government of Lesotho, convened under the theme: "Digital Transformation: Harnessing AI, Strengthening Governance in IP Offices, and Advancing Regional IP Cooperation."

Key discussions at the event centered on the adoption of artificial intelligence and its role in value creation, cybersecurity and risk management in intellectual property services, updates on global IP developments, and strategic negotiation approaches for IP offices across the continent.

In a dispatch from Lesotho, Madam Koboi highlighted the conference as a vital platform for Liberia to engage with regional partners on emerging intellectual property issues, particularly those related to artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

"As technology continues to reshape innovation and business globally, Liberia must position its intellectual property system to respond effectively to new opportunities and challenges while strengthening institutional governance and service delivery," Madam Koboi stated.

She further noted that Liberia’s participation aligns with ongoing initiatives led by President Boakai’s administration to modernize the country’s IP framework, bolster regional cooperation, and raise awareness of intellectual property’s critical role in national development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Madam Koboi also served as one of the conference moderators, facilitating discussions among African IP leaders.

The conference coincides with ARIPO’s efforts to assist member states in modernizing their IP systems and adapting to rapid technological changes that influence innovation, creativity, and digital commerce.

Additionally, the forum aims to enhance coordination among African intellectual property offices and develop unified regional positions on IP matters at both continental and international levels.

Established as an intergovernmental organization, ARIPO promotes cooperation among African states in intellectual property administration and protection. It currently collaborates with 23 member states to strengthen IP systems that support innovation, creativity, industrial development, and economic growth across Africa.