The Department of Intellectual Property, on 29th August 2025, held a virtual meeting with the International Trademark Association (INTA) to plan collaborative activities aimed at enhancing intellectual property awareness and enforcement in Uganda.
The meeting was chaired by Mr. Robert Mugabe, Commissioner of the Department of Intellectual Property, and attended by URSB officials. INTA was represented by Mr. Tat-Tienne Louembe, Chief Representative Officer for Europe & Intergovernmental Organizations, and Ms. Hazel Okoth, Africa Consultant.
Discussions focused on translating INTA’s proposals into actionable programs aligned with URSB’s approved work plans and budgets. Proposed initiatives include sensitization seminars for trademark examiners, training for judges, IP awareness programs in schools, and the establishment of a parliamentary caucus on intellectual property.
It was agreed that by the end of 2025, URSB and INTA will conduct a seminar for examiners on emerging issues such as AI and virtual hearings, as well as IP sensitization sessions for students in two secondary schools.
Looking ahead to the INTA Annual General Meeting in London in May 2026, both parties will collaborate on forming a Parliamentary Caucus on IP, integrating IP training into judges’ insolvency programs, and organizing workshops for businesses and law firms on effective branding.
URSB will coordinate on-the-ground activities, while INTA will provide funding and technical support. The next planning meeting is scheduled for 5th September 2025 to finalize concepts, budgets, and detailed programs for the agreed initiatives.