PACRA participates in ARIPO Administrative Council Session in Accra

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) is participating in the 49th Session of the Administrative Council of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), taking place in Accra. The high-level meeting has brought together heads of intellectual property offices, technical experts, and policymakers from across ARIPO Member States.

The Council is reviewing progress in the administration of intellectual property, strengthening regional cooperation, and making key decisions that will shape the future of IP governance across the African continent. As ARIPO’s main decision-making body, the Administrative Council plays a central role in modernising IP systems, improving service delivery, and supporting innovation.

This year’s session is addressing critical issues related to industrial property, copyright and related rights, plant variety protection, digital transformation, and capacity building within national IP offices. Delegates are also considering regional strategies aimed at expanding access to IP services, harmonising protocols, and ensuring that creators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses benefit from a robust and forward-looking IP framework.

For Zambia, participation in the session underscores PACRA’s commitment to strengthening the country’s intellectual property ecosystem, supporting innovation-led economic growth, and ensuring that national systems and institutions remain aligned with regional and international standards.

PACRA Registrar and CEO, Mr. Benson Mpalo, is leading the Zambian delegation, which includes Deputy Registrar for IP, Mr. Chewe Chilufya; PACRA Director of Human Resource and Administration, Mr. Aaron Mpembamoto; and Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Principal Economist for Private Sector Development and Trade Promotion, Ms. Nolianga Imasiku.