OUAGADOUGOU: The African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), in collaboration with the Burkinabe government, has initiated discussions on safeguarding artisanal and industrial products, aiming to enhance innovation and creativity across Africa. The dialogue commenced at the 17th edition of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO), inaugurated by the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event marks the beginning of a series of discussions led by OAPI in partnership with the Burkinabe State, focusing on the protection of artisanal and industrial creations. Dr. Boris Ouédraogo, the Deputy Director General of the Ouagadougou Polytechnic School, highlighted the importance of these discussions in educating students about design protection and fostering innovation.

The conference featured four key presentations under the theme ‘Designs, Industrial Models, and Crafts’. Among the presenters were Sarah Velontahiana, a principal assistant in the Tradema
rks, Industrial Designs, and Indications sector, and Bernadette Ngo Mbaga épse Djonga, an industrial designs examiner. Dr. Ouédraogo and Babacar Sylla, a designer and training engineering expert, also contributed insights to the event attended by vocational training school students.

Dr. Ouédraogo emphasized the importance of protecting artisanal and industrial works to safeguard against competition and ensure product exclusivity. Charles Wendinda Ribgoalinga, the permanent secretary of the National Center for Intellectual Property, praised OAPI’s efforts to support African artisans and underscored the Burkinabe government’s commitment to prioritizing the craft sector to boost national creativity.

OAPI, established in 1962, is a regional organization headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon, representing 17 countries in West and Central Africa.