Sierra Leone Commemorates World Intellectual Property Examiners Day 2025

Sierra Leone joined the global community on Tuesday to celebrate World Intellectual Property (IP) Examiners Day 2025, highlighting the pivotal role of IP examiners in national development, innovation, and economic growth.

The event, organized jointly by the Office of the Administrator & Registrar General and the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, was held under the theme: “Celebrating and Empowering Intellectual Property Examiners.”

Presiding as Chairperson, ACP Johan Bull Kamara emphasized the growing importance of intellectual property in law and commerce. “From marketplace confusion and the economic impact of infringement to franchising challenges and the value of distinctiveness, Intellectual Property is not just about ownership — it is about opportunity, protection, innovation, and national development,” she stated.

Welcoming participants, Ms. Martina Egbenda, Administrator & Registrar General, applauded IP examiners for their dedication in protecting creativity and enabling innovation. She highlighted Sierra Leone’s progress in strengthening its IP legal framework, with support from international partners including WIPO and ARIPO, and urged continued commitment to fostering a system that drives economic growth and sustainable development.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Justice, Madam Saptieu Elizabeth Saccoh, described IP examiners as the “guardians of innovation and integrity.” She stressed that their work ensures only genuine creations are protected, fostering trust and confidence among innovators.

Madam Saccoh highlighted the need for capacity building and the integration of digital tools in IP administration, noting that modernization would streamline processes and position Sierra Leone as a leader in technological advancement. She further called for a multi-stakeholder approach, encouraging collaboration between government, creators, legal professionals, and the public to strengthen the national IP landscape.

“Our future depends on recognizing the strategic importance of intellectual property to unlock our creative potential and drive national development,” she added.

The event brought together government officials, legal professionals, innovators, and development partners, uniting in a call for a stronger, inclusive IP framework one that protects creators, attracts investment, and fuels national progress.