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“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now” – African Proverb

Many South African law firms hold themselves out as “the gateway to Africa”, but even the firms with offices in more than one country still rely on local agents for work in most of Africa.

We have developed relationships with local agents in all of the African countries and we are well able to assist clients in securing intellectual property rights in every African country.

This map highlights Africa’s markets and territories and the intellectual property systems in place. We are able to assist in all of these countries.

Regional Filing Systems in Africa

OAPI – Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle

Benin
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Central African Republic
Chad
Congo
Ivory Coast
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Comoros

ARIPO – African Intellectual Property Organization

Botswana
Gambia
Ghana
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibi
Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Swaziland
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe

PCT – Patent Cooperation Treaty

All Countries, with the exception of Burundi, Dijibouti and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Botswana

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO PCT WTO Paris Convention
Types of Patents Available	Patents of Invention National Phase PCT Application ARIPO Application ARIPO regional Phase PCT Application
Patentable Subject Matter	An invention is patentable if it is new, involves an inventive step, is industrially applicable or is a new use. The following are not patentable: Inventions contrary to public order or morality; Presentation of information; Scientific or mathematical theories, plant varieties, animal breeds, biological processes for obtaining plants or animals; Schemes and/or combinations relating to finance, intellectual processes or games of chance; Processes of curing disease in the field f medicine, veterinary science or methods of diagnosis; Computer programmes; Ornaments
Novelty Requirements	Absolute novelty is a requirement. However, information disclosed to the public within twelve months from filing date or priority date will not destroy novelty of the invention; Provided the information is disclosed by the inventor; or By a third party who derived information from the inventor.
Filing requirements: ARIPO Regional PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney(simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable Assignment of Invention Priority document with verified English translation
Examination	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date. However some national legislation not yet in line and thus position unclear.
Extensions and Supplementary Protection certificates (if applicable)
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Algeria

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention , PCT, Patent Law Treaty, WIPO
Types of Patents Available	Patents of invention Patents of addition National Phase PCT Application
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Title in French with Arabic translation Copy of the published International Application Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report Formal drawings, if applicable Specification, claims and abstract in Arabic Copy of International Search Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, Claims and Abstract in French Formal Drawings, if applicable Assignment of priority rights Priority document with verified French translation
Duration	A Patent is valid for twenty years from application filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Botswana

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty, WIPO, Berne Convention, WTO, Harare Protocol, Paris Convention, Hague Agreement, Madrid Protocol
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover more than one class of goods and/or services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Absolute novelty is a requirement. However, information disclosed to the public within twelve months from filing date or priority date will not destroy novelty of the invention; Provided the information is disclosed by the inventor; or By a third party who derived information from the inventor.
Duration and Renewal	Power of attorney, simply signed. One or more prints of the mark
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for subsequent further periods of ten years.

Algeria

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, Paris Convention, Madrid Agreement, Nice Agreement , Lisbon Agreement , Nairobi Treaty, Rome Convention, Nice Agreement
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods and services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, in French (simply signed). Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Angola

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention, WIPO, WTO
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (notarised and legalised) Specification, Claims and Abstract in Portuguese Formal drawings, where applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Duration	A patent is valid for fifteen years from filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the date of filing.

Angola

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Paris Convention, WTO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Series marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (legalised). Representation of the trade mark. Certified copy of the certificate of incorporation (legalised). Statement of use (legalised).
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for a subsequent period of ten years.

Benin

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, OAPI, Paris Convention, WIPO
Filing requirements: OAPI Regional Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) Assignments of priority rights Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, where applicable
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, if applicable Assignments of priority rights Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Benin

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, International Convention (Stockholm), Paris Convention, Hague Agreement, WIPO Copyright Treaty, Nice Agreement, Berne Convention, WTO, AIPO, Nairobi Treaty
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed). Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Burkina Faso

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention , WIPO, OAPI, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report Formal drawings, where applicable Assignments of priority rights Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Formal drawings, where applicable Assignments of priority rights Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Burkina Faso

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	International Convention (Stockholm), Lisbon Agreement, Trade Mark Registration Treaty, Berne Convention, WIPO, Rome Convention, Singapore Treaty, Trade Mark Law Treaty, Hague Agreement, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty, WTO, AIPO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Burundi

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Paris Convention, WTO, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: Patents of Importation	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, Claims and Abstract in French Formal drawings, where applicable Certified copy of foreign granted patent
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, Claims and Abstract in French Formal drawings, if applicable Assignment of Priority Rights Priority Document with verified English Translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective for twenty years from date of filing. A patent of importation lasts for the unexpired term of the foreign patent.
Renewal	No renewal fees are payable

Burundi

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	International Convention (Stockholm), WIPO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods is recognised.
Filing requirements	Power of attorney in French (simply signed). Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	Registration is for an unlimited period.

Cameroon

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, OAPI, Paris Convention, WIPO
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, if applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Copy of international publication · Copy of International Search Report · Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Cameroon

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, International Convention (Stockholm), Paris Convention, Singapore Treaty, WIPO, WTO, Hague Agreement, AIPO
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Trademarks

International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements

Berne Convention, International Convention (Stockholm), Paris Convention, Singapore Treaty, WIPO, WTO, Hague Agreement, AIPO

Filing requirements

Power of attorney (simply signed)

Representation of the trade mark

Duration and Renewal

A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Central African Republic

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, WIPO, Paris Convention, OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability Formal drawings, where applicable Assignments of priority rights Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Assignments of priority rights Priority document with verified English or French translation Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, where applicable
Duration	Effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Central African Republic

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	International Convention (Stockholm), WIPO, Singapore Treaty, Hague Agreement, AIPO, Berne Convention, WTO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods/services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: · Service marks · Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Chad

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	International Convention (Stockholm), WIPO, Berne Convention, WTO, Paris Convention, Hague Agreement, AIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Chad

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention, WIPO, OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Assignments of priority rights · Copy of international publication · Copy of International Search Report · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, if applicable · Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, if applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Congo

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention, WIPO, OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, where applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Copy of international publication · Copy of International Search Report · Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, if applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Congo

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention, WIPO, OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, where applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Copy of international publication · Copy of International Search Report · Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	· Power of attorney (simply signed) · Specification, claims and abstract in English or French · Formal drawings, if applicable · Assignments of priority rights · Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, WTO, Paris Convention
Filing requirements:	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, Claims and Abstract in French and then in any language Formal drawings, where applicable Certified copy of basic foreign granted patent.
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, Claims and Abstract in French and then in any language Formal drawings, where applicable Priority document with verified French translation. Assignment of Priority Rights, where applicable Assignment of Invention, where applicable
Duration	A valid patent lasts up to twenty from date of filing. Patents in the pharmaceutical field last fifteen years from the filing date. Patents of importation last for as long as the foreign patent lasts.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, Paris Convention, Phonograms Convention, Singapore Treaty, WTO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed). A representation of the trade mark, unless it is an ordinary word mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Egypt

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention , WTO, WIPO, TRIPS, PCT
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (legalised) Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability Specification, Claims and Abstract in English and Arabic Formal drawings, where applicable Assignment of priority rights
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (legalised) Specification, Claims and Abstract in English and Arabic Priority document with verified English and Arabic translation Formal drawings, if applicable (without labelling) Formal drawings, if applicable (with full labelling) Assignment of invention and priority rights (legalised) Certificate of Incorporation (legalised)
Duration	A valid patent lasts for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the date of filing.

Egypt

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, TRIPS, Nice Agreement, Madrid Protocol, Nairobi Treaty, Washington Treaty, Madrid Agreement, Trade Mark Law Treaty, Hague Agreement, WIPO, WTO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Certification marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney in Arabic (legalised up to Egyptian Consul.) Representation of the trade mark.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Equatorial New Guinea

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention, WIPO, OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, where applicable Assignments of priority rights Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, where applicable Assignments of priority rights Priority document with verified English or French translation
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Ethiopia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, WTO
Filing requirements: Patents of Importation	Power of attorney (legalised) Certificate of Incorporation (legalised) Certified copy of basic foreign patent Specification, Claims and Abstract in English Formal drawings, where applicable
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (legalised) Specification, Claims and Abstract in English Assignment of Invention (legalised) Priority Document with verified English translation International Patent Classification Formal drawings, if applicable Certificate of Incorporation (legalised)
Duration	A patent lasts for an initial 15 year period and may be extended for a period of up to five years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Ethiopia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Nairobi Treaty
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	No provision.
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, legalised up to Ethiopian Consul. Copy of corresponding home registration or any foreign registration legalised up to Ethiopian Consul. Twelve prints of the trade mark.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of six years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of six years. Cautionary notices should be published every two years.
Licensing/Registered Users	Licensing is recognised.

Equatorial New Guinea

Trademarks

International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements

Berne Convention, Paris Convention, Hague Agreement, WIPO, AIPO, Nairobi Treaty

Classification

The International Classification of goods and services applies.

Categories of Trade Marks

Provision is made for:

Collective marks
Service marks

Filing requirements

Power of attorney (simply signed)

Representation of the trade mark

Duration and Renewal

A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Gabon

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, WTO, International Convention (Stockholm), Lisbon Agreement , Trade Mark Registration Treaty, Paris Convention, Trade Mark Law Treaty, WIPO Copyright Treaty , WIPO Performance and Phonograms Treaty, Hague Agreement, AIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Gambia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, PCT, WTO, Paris Convention, WIPO, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: ARIPO Regional PCT application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney(simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable Assignment of Invention Priority document with verified English translation
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date. However some national legislation not yet in line and thus position unclear. In Gambia, valid patent lasts for fifteen years which can be extended for a period of five years if proof of working can be shown.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Gambia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, Berne Convention, Harare Protocol, Paris Convention, WIPO, WTO, International Convention (Stockholm)
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, simply signed. Six prints of the trade mark.
Procedure	Applications are examined as to inherent registrability and conflict with prior existing registrations/applications.
Oppositions	Opposition may be lodged within three months following the date of advertisement of the trade mark application. Extension of the opposition period is possible at the discretion of the Registrar.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of fourteen years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of fourteen years.

Ghana

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, PCT, WTO, Paris Convention, Patent Law Treaty, WIPO
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application / ARIPO Regional Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report Formal drawings, where applicable International Patent Classification
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Assignment of Invention Priority document with verified English translation Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Ghana

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Nice Convention, Washington Treaty, Hague Agreement, Madrid Protocol, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WTO, ARIPO, Berne Convention, WIPO, Paris Convention, Singapore Treaty
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A separate application must be filed for each class.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: · Series marks · Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, simply signed. Ten prints of the trade mark
Procedure	Applications are examined as to formal requirements and conflict with prior existing registrations/applications.
Oppositions	Opposition may be lodged within two months following the date of advertisement of the trade mark application. Extension of the opposition period is possible at the discretion of the Registrar.
Use	Registration may be cancelled if there has been no bona fide use of the trade mark for a continuous period of five years and one month up to date of application for cancellation.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.
Licensing/Registered Users	Licensing is recognised. Recordation is required in order to be effective against third parties and for use by the licensee to inure to the benefit of the Registered proprietor.
Assignment	Assignments may be made with or without goodwill. Recordation is required.
Marking	Optional

Guinea

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, Singapore Treaty, Trade Mark Law Treaty, Hague Agreement, Vienna Agreement, AIPO, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WTO, Paris Convention, Nice Agreement
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, simply signed. Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Guinea

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, Singapore Treaty, Trade Mark Law Treaty, Hague Agreement, Nice Agreement, Vienna Agreement, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WTO, Paris Convention,AIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney, simply signed. Ten prints of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Guinea-Bissau

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris convention, WIPO, PCT , OAPI
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, if applicable Assignments of priority rights Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, if applicable Assignments of priority rights Priority document with verified English or French translation
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Guinea-Bissau

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, WTO, Paris Convention, Hague Agreement, AIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Ivory Coast

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris convention, WIPO, PCT, OAPI, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of attorney (simply signed) pecification, claims and abstract in English or French Formal drawings, if applicable Copy of International Preliminary report on Patentability Assignments of priority rights Copy of international publication Copy of International Search Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Formal drawings, if applicable Assignments of priority rights Priority document with verified English or French translation Specification, claims and abstract in English or French
Duration	A valid patent is effective in all OAPI member states and is valid for twenty years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Ivory Coast

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, Nairobi Treaty, Paris Convention, Trade Mark law Treaty, Hague Agreement, AIPO, WIPO, WTO, Brussels Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark
Duration	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Kenya

Trademarks
Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, WTO, Signatory to the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty, Member of ARIPO, Nairobi Treaty, Berne Union, Paris Union, Signatory to the Trade Mark Law Treaty, Madrid Agreement, Madrid Protocol
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Certification marks Defensive marks Service marks Series marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) A representation of the mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Liberia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention, WIPO, ARIPO, PCT, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, where applicable Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Assignment of Invention Priority document with verified English translation
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Liberia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, Banjul Protocol, Berne Convention, Harare Protocol, Rome Convention, Washington Treaty, Madrid Protocol, WIPO, Madrid Agreement, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (legalised up to Liberian Consul) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of fifteen years.

Libya

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention, PCT, WIPO
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (legalised) Specification, Claims and Abstract in Arabic Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report Formal drawings, where applicable International Patent Classification
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (legalised) Specifications, Claims and Abstract in Arabic Priority document with verified English and Arabic translation Formal drawings, if applicable Assignment of invention and priority rights (legalised) Certificate of Incorporation (legalised)
Duration	A valid Patent lasts for an initial period of fifteen years with an option to extend the patent for a further five year period, depending on the relevant area of technology.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Libya

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, WIPO, Paris Convention
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Service marks Certification marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (legalised up to Libyan Consul) Certificate of incorporation (legalised up to Libyan Consul) Representation of the trade mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Malawi

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention, ARIPO, PCT, WIPO, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, where applicable Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Duration	The duration of an ARIPO Protocol patent is twenty years from filing date. A Malawian patent lasts for sixteen years. This term can be extended by up to ten years.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date, from the third anniversary date.

Malawi

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Harare Protocol, WTO, Paris Convention , WIPO, ARIPO, Nice Agreement, Hague Convention, Banjul Protocol, Berne Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Series marks Certification marks Defensive marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed). A representation of the mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of seven years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of fourteen years.

Morocco

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, Budapest Treaty, WIPO, Nairobi Treaty, Hague Agreement, Lisbon Agreement, Nice Agreement, Madrid Protocol, Madrid Agreement , The Trade Mark Law Treaty, Brussels Convention, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WIPO Performances and Phonograms, WTO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods and/or services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Certification marks Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Morocco

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Berne Convention, Budapest Treaty, WIPO, Nairobi Treaty, Hague Agreement, Lisbon Agreement, Nice Agreement, Madrid Protocol, Madrid Agreement , The Trade Mark Law Treaty, Brussels Convention, WIPO Copyright Treaty, WIPO Performances and Phonograms, WTO, Paris Convention
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A single application may cover any number of classes of goods and/or services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Collective marks Certification marks Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (simply signed) Representation of the trade mark.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Mozambique

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Agreements	Paris Union, World Trade Organization, WIPO, ARIPO, PCT
Filing Requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (notarised) Specification and claims (in Portuguese or English), verified Portuguese translation required within 3 months of filing Abstract (in Portuguese) Formal drawings, where applicable Assignment of Invention, where applicable Copy of Published International Application Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Report on Patentability
Duration	The term of a patent is 20 from the filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable the first anniversary after filing, every year

Mozambique

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Paris Union, Madrid Agreement, Madrid Protocol, WTO, Harare Protocol, ARIP), TRIPS
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Collective marks Certification marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (notarised), including a verified Portuguese translation. A representation of the mark, except for word marks in ordinary type. Priority document (if applicable), including a verified Portuguese translation
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years from the date of filing of the application, and thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Namibia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Agreements	Paris Union, PCT, World Trade Organization, WIPO, ARIPO
National Phase PCT Application	Namibia patent legislation does not make provision for PCT applications. As a result the filing requirements for PCT applications specified have not been specified.
Patents of Invention (non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Assignment of Invention, where applicable Formal drawings, where applicable
Renewal	Renewal fees fall due on the third, seventh and tenth anniversary of the filing date

Namibia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, WTO, Berne Union, Signatory to WIPO Copyright Treaty, Signatory to WIPO Performance and Phonograms Treaty, Madrid Agreement, Madrid Protocol, Banjul Protocol, Harare Protocol, TRIPS, ARIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A separate trademark application is required for each class of goods and/or services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Certification marks Service marks Defensive marks
Filing requirements	Simply signed Power of Attorney. Multiple representations except for word marks in ordinary type.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years from filing date and, renewable for subsequent further periods of ten years.

Niger

Patent
International Conventions. Treaties and Agreements:	Paris Union, World Trade Organization, WIPO, OAPI, PCT, For more details see OAPI Filing Requirements

Rwanda

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	PCT, Paris Convention
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date. However some national legislation not yet in line and thus position unclear.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Rwanda

Trademarks

Classification

International classification of goods and services applies.

Filing requirements

Power of attorney (simply signed).

Representation of the trade mark (device marks)

Duration and Renewal

A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years and, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.

Sierra Leone

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Union, WIPO, PCT , ARIPO
Filing Requirements	Re-registration of granted UK or European (UK) Patent: Power of Attorney (simply signed) Form of Application (simply signed) Two copies of granted UK or European (UK) patent Certificate from the British Comptroller giving particulars of the granted British patent
National Phase PCT Application	Sierra Leone has acceded to the PCT, however no new law has been enacted which would recognise or allow for the filing of PCT applications, nor have filing requirements for such application been specified. However, in practice the Registrar accepts PCT national phase applications which remain dormant and will be dealt with when the new law is enacted. Draft laws exist but have not yet been passed in Sierra Leone to provide for filing national applications. Sierra Leone is a member of the International Convention, ARIPO, WTO and PCT (however, Sierra Leone has not formally ratified the Treaty). PCT based national phase applications are being accepted but remain dormant pending implementation of the new legislation.
Duration	The patent remains in force as long as the UK patent on which it is based is in force. The term of an ARIPO patent will be twenty years from the filing date.
Renewal	No renewal fees are payable

Sierra Leone

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, WTO, ARIPO, Paris Union, Madrid Union, TRIPS
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Certification marks Series marks Registration of United Kingdom trade marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney, signed before a Notary Public or under corporate seal Representation of the mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for a period of 14 years from filing date, thereafter, renewable for further periods of 14 years. Registration based on UK registrations endure for the same period as the corresponding UK registration, and to avoid cancellation, must be renewed in Sierra Leone after renewal has been effected in the UK.

Somalia

Patent
International Arrangements	WIPO, ARIPO but has not yet ratified
Duration	The term of a patent is fifteen years from the filing date, which is not extendable. The Patent of Addition expires with the main patent.
Renewal	Renewal fees fall due annually commencing on the first anniversary of the filing date.
Filing requirements:	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report

Somalia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, ARIPO
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (simply signed) 15 prints, except for word marks in ordinary type. Possibly also a printing block of device marks.
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for a period of twenty years from date of filing, thereafter renewable for further twenty year periods.

South Africa

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Union, WIPO , PCT
National Phase Applications under the PCT	Name(s) and address(es) of applicant(s). Name(s) and address(es) of inventor(s). Number, date and country of the basic application if Paris Convention priority is to be claimed. International application number and filing date
Examination	The application is subjected to formal examination only.
Duration	The term is twenty years from the date of filing.
Renewal	Maintenance fees are payable annually as from the third anniversary of the filing date. A 6 months grace period is available.

South Africa

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Signatory to the WIPO performances and Phonograms, TRIPS WIPO, Paris Union, Signatory to the Trade Mark Law Treaty, Berne Union, Signatory to WIPO Copyright Treaty
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for the following types of marks: Collective marks Service marks Certification marks
Filing requirements	Simply signed Power of Attorney Priority document (if applicable), with verified English translation A representation of the mark, except for word marks
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years from filing date, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years

Sudan

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Union, WIPO , PCT, ARIPO
Filing Requirements: National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (signed under Corporate Seal or before a Notary Public Specification, claims and abstract in English Abstract in Arabic Formal drawings, if applicable Copy of Published International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Report on Patentability
Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of Attorney (signed under Corporate Seal or before a Notary Public) Specification, claims and abstract in English Title and abstract in Arabic Formal drawings, if applicable Certificate of Incorporation (legalised) Priority document with verified English translation Legalization up to Sudanese Consular level is required but no notarisation. A specification in English or Arabic is needed. Abstract in Arabic is required
Duration	The term of a patent is twenty years from the filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees of PCT applications are due annually from the International Filing Date.

Sudan

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Union, Madrid Union, WIPO, WTO, TRIPS
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies. A separate application is required for each class of goods and/or services.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks
Filing requirements	Power of attorney (signed & including official seal or duly notarized) Representation of the mark and a printing block of the trade mark A copy of the certificate of incorporation, where applicable (legalised up to a Sudanese Consul) Priority document (if applicable), with verified English translation Meaning/Interpretation of the word mark
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of ten years from filing date, thereafter, renewable for further periods of ten years.
Marking	Marking is optional and may consist of the words “Registered Trade Mark” or suitable abbreviation such as “Regd. Tm.” or the symbol ®.

Tanzania

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention, the Harare Protocol, WIPO, TRIPS, the Nice Protocol
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Service marks Three-dimensional marks, upon providing proof of registration from other countries Collective marks Series marks Certification marks Colour or combination of colours marks Associated marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (simply signed). Representation of the mark, except for word marks in ordinary type. Priority document (if applicable), with verified English translation. Specification of the goods and services
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is valid for seven years from the filing date, thereafter, for further periods of ten years.

Uganda

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Union, WIPO, ARIPO , PCT
National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable Relevant class(es) of the International Patent Classification Assignment of Invention Copy of Published International Application Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Report on Patentability
Duration	The term of a patent is fifteen years from the filing date. However, the term of the patent may be extended for a further period of five years, provided that proof is furnished that the invention is being properly worked in Uganda at the date of the request.
Renewal	Renewal fees fall due annually commencing on the first anniversary of the filing date.

Uganda

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Nairobi Treaty, Banjul Protocol, Harare Protocol, WTO, Paris Union, TRIPS, ARIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Defensive marks Service marks Certification marks Series marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Representation of the mark, except for word marks in ordinary type Priority document, where applicable with verified English translation
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of seven years from date of application, thereafter, renewable for further periods of 14 years.

Zambia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	International Convention, ARIPO, PCT, WTO
Filing Requirements	A specification in English is needed.
Duration	A patent has a term of sixteen years from the date of filing of the application. The patentee may apply for an extension of the term on the grounds of inadequate remuneration.
Renewal	Maintenance fees are payable annually from the third anniversary of the filing date

Zambia

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Madrid Union (Agreement and Protocol), Paris Union, Berne Union, WTO, Harare Protocol, TRIPS, ARIPO
Classification	The International Classification of goods applies (there is no provision for services).
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for: Series marks Certification marks Defensive marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Representation of the mark Certified copy of priority documents, where applicable, with verified English translation
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of 7 years from filing date, thereafter, renewable for further periods of 14 years.

Zimbabwe

Patent
International Arrangements	Paris Union, PCT WIPO, ARIPO
National Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Copy of Published International Application Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Report on Patentability Formal drawings, where applicable Assignment of Invention, where applicable Copy of Published International Application Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Report on Patentability
Duration	The term of a patent is twenty years from the filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are due from the third anniversary of the filing date, on an annual basis.

Zimbabwe

Trademarks
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	WIPO, Paris Union, WTO, Berne Union, TRIPS, ARIPO, Harare Protocol, Banjul Protocol
Classification	The International Classification of goods and services applies.
Categories of Trade Marks	Provision is made for:Service marks Defensive marks Collective marks Certification marks Series marks
Filing requirements	Power of Attorney (simply signed) A representation of the mark Priority document, where applicable
Duration and Renewal	A trade mark registration is effective for an initial period of 10 years from filing date [or from the priority date if priority is claimed. The trademark can be renewed for further subsequent 10 year periods.

Gambia

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	ARIPO, PCT, WTO, Paris Convention, WIPO, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: ARIPO Regional PCT application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney(simply signed) Specification, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, if applicable Assignment of Invention Priority document with verified English translation
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date. However some national legislation not yet in line and thus position unclear. In Gambia, valid patent lasts for fifteen years which can be extended for a period of five years if proof of working can be shown.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.

Kenya

Patent
International Conventions, Treaties and Arrangements	Paris Convention, WIPO, ARIPO, PCT, Patent Law Treaty
Filing requirements: National Phase PCT Application / ARIPO Regional Phase PCT Application	Power of Attorney (simply signed) Specifications, claims and abstract in English Formal drawings, where applicable International Patent Classification Copy of PCT International Publication Copy of International Search Report Copy of International Preliminary Examination Report
Filing requirements: Patents of Invention (Non-PCT)	Power of attorney (simply signed) Specification and formal drawings, where applicable International Patent Classification Assignment of Invention Claims and abstract in English Priority document with verified English translation
Duration	ARIPO Protocol amended to twenty years from filing date.
Renewal	Renewal fees are payable annually on the anniversary of the filing date.