By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Justice, Saptieu Saccoh, and Registrar-General Martina Baindu Egbenda met with Sherine Greiss, Senior Coordinator for Copyright Development at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The meeting took place in Geneva, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the WIPO Assembly.
The discussions centered on securing continued financial and technical support to strengthen Sierra Leone’s intellectual property (IP) systems particularly in the formal and informal sectors.
This engagement comes at a critical time, as Sierra Leone intensifies efforts to enhance its IP framework to drive creativity, innovation, and economic development.
Deputy Minister Saccoh emphasized that a well-structured IP system is essential for national progress. “Strengthening our IP systems is essential for both protecting our cultural heritage and fostering a conducive environment for business,” he said.
The meeting also explored ways to tailor support for local artisans and entrepreneurs, many of whom operate within informal markets that currently lack adequate IP protections.
Registrar-General Martina Egbenda echoed the Deputy Minister’s remarks, stressing the importance of public education and awareness regarding intellectual property rights.
“Many creators in Sierra Leone are unaware of their rights and the benefits of formalizing their work,” she noted, emphasizing the need for outreach, training, and capacity-building programs.
The collaboration with WIPO is expected to provide the expertise, policy guidance, and resources needed to establish a more robust IP ecosystem in Sierra Leone. This will not only help protect the rights of creators but also attract investment and entrepreneurial activity, particularly in creative industries.
This high-level meeting marks a significant step toward transforming Sierra Leone’s IP landscape. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering creators, protecting innovations, and promoting sustainable economic growth through international cooperation.
