Uganda Unveils National Intellectual Property Policy to Boost Innovation and Creativity

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni officially launched the National Intellectual Property Policy (NIPP) on 23 September at State House in Entebbe. The event gathered key government officials including Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Ephraim Kamuntu, registrar-general Bemanya Twebaze, and stakeholders from various departments involved in the intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.

The policy, which received cabinet approval in May 2019, is intended to foster effective linkages between Uganda’s IP framework and international systems. It also sets strategic directions for Uganda’s regional and global IP relations.

The overarching goal of the NIPP is to harness intellectual property rights to stimulate creativity and innovation, thereby driving social, cultural, and economic development within Uganda. To achieve this, the policy emphasizes promoting IP awareness through targeted short training programs.

President Museveni highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting innovations that enhance the profitability of Ugandan enterprises. He stated, “The National Intellectual Property Policy will give innovators the full protection of the law through patents, copyright, trademarks, etc. This will enable these innovators to earn their rightful recognition and financial returns for their toil and sweat.” He underscored the importance of rewarding individuals and groups for their innovations.

Registrar-General Bemanya Twebaze elaborated on the policy’s role in protecting creative works such as songs, paintings, and literary writings. He noted that African literature traditionally relied on oral transmission through storytelling and songs, and the policy marks a significant step in encouraging talent development and rewarding dedicated individuals in the entertainment industry.

The policy covers a broad spectrum of IP assets relevant to the creative sector, including inventions, discoveries, trade secrets, processes, computer programs, data, patents, copyrights, trademarks, and designs. These assets commonly underpin the works of musicians, poets, and writers.

By establishing a robust legal framework and promoting IP education, Uganda aims to create an environment where creators and innovators can thrive, ensuring their contributions are legally protected and economically beneficial.

The launch of the NIPP represents a milestone in Uganda’s efforts to integrate intellectual property rights into its broader development agenda, supporting the growth of creative industries and innovation-driven enterprises.

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