Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), through its Intellectual Property Department, hosted the National Geographical Indications (GI) Working Group breakfast meeting today at the Uganda Business Facilitation Centre (UBFC), Level 5 Board Room, bringing together key stakeholders to review progress and discuss priorities for advancing Uganda’s GI sector.
The meeting brought together representatives from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA), KTA Advocates, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA), and the Intellectual Property Department.
Assistant Commissioner, Traditional Knowledge, Kafunjo Twinomujuni, represented the Commissioner, Intellectual Property, and delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of coordinated stakeholder efforts in strengthening Uganda’s GI ecosystem.
The meeting featured a presentation by Assistant Commissioner, Trademarks and Geographical Indications, Allan Kakungulu, who provided an update on the GI sector, highlighting key developments and achievements, as well as proposed interventions and priorities for the next phase of GI development.
An open-floor discussion led by Joseph Mbihayeimaana from NARO provided an opportunity for members to share views on progress made, proposed interventions, areas requiring attention, opportunities for institutional contribution and broader stakeholder engagement.
The discussions highlighted the importance of continued collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen Uganda’s GI system, support producers and enhance the recognition and market value of products associated with Uganda’s unique geographical identity and heritage.
Through such engagements, URSB’s Intellectual Property Department continues to bring stakeholders together to strengthen the IP ecosystem and explore opportunities for Geographical Indications to contribute to Uganda’s economic development.
