Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening intellectual property (IP) as a key driver of innovation, creativity, and economic growth during the 36th Session of a committee of the World Intellectual Property Organization held in Geneva.
Representing the country at the high-level session on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, Mr. Ibrahim Sam Johnson, Senior Registration Officer at the Office of the Administrator and Registrar-General, delivered remarks on behalf of Madam Martina Baindu Egbenda.
In his statement, Johnson congratulated the Chair of the session and expressed appreciation to the secretariat for its preparations. He also aligned Sierra Leone with the position presented by South Africa on behalf of the African Group.
At the international level, Sierra Leone highlighted its membership in major intellectual property treaties, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty, and its participation in both the Madrid Agreement and the Madrid Protocol. The delegation further disclosed that the country is considering additional treaty accessions as part of efforts to deepen its engagement in the global IP system.
On the domestic front, Sierra Leone reported significant progress with the enactment of the Patent and Industrial Designs Regulations and the Trademark Regulations of 2024. Officials said the reforms are intended to improve efficiency, transparency, and clarity within the nation’s intellectual property administration.
The delegation also underscored ongoing efforts to establish a Collective Management Organization aimed at strengthening copyright administration and protecting the rights of creators.
Additionally, Sierra Leone highlighted public awareness initiatives such as the launch of Intellectual Property School Clubs during World Intellectual Property Day, designed to educate young people on the value of innovation and creative rights.
The country further acknowledged the technical support provided by WIPO, particularly the rollout of the IP Administration System (IPAS), which is expected to modernize IP services and improve operational effectiveness.
Reaffirming its broader vision, Sierra Leone stated its determination to build a practical, inclusive, and development-oriented intellectual property framework capable of supporting national growth and empowering innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators.
