Mauritius Joins Harare Protocol, Boosting Intellectual Property Protections in Africa

An independent law firm, ENS, with more than 200 years of experience and over 600 legal professionals across 14 African offices—including Ghana, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda—reports a significant development for intellectual property in Africa.

Mauritius has officially joined the Harare Protocol, effective from August 27, 2025. This move marks a major step forward in protecting intellectual property rights across the continent.

Mauritius deposited its instrument of accession on May 27, 2025, becoming the 21st member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO).

This expansion allows applicants to seek patent, utility model, and industrial design protections in up to 21 countries through a single ARIPO application.

Previously, applicants had to file separate applications in each country, but now they can streamline the process, saving time and reducing legal costs.

The Harare Protocol simplifies the process of securing intellectual property rights across member states by creating a unified legal framework.

For businesses and inventors, this means easier access to regional protection, encouraging innovation and investment in Africa.

Mauritius’s accession aligns with its goal to develop as a knowledge-based economy and serve as a gateway for investors and innovators entering Africa.

The move supports broader efforts to strengthen intellectual property rights, promote international collaboration, and foster sustainable economic growth.

However, Mauritius has not yet joined the Banjul Protocol for trademarks, so it cannot currently be included in ARIPO trademark applications.

Source: Mondaq