Ethiopia's IP Authority Registers Over 5,000 Rights in a Year: An International Update

On April 28, 2025, ENA reported from Addis Ababa that the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) disclosed it had registered and safeguarded over 5,000 intellectual property rights throughout the past fiscal year.

The announcement was made during Ethiopia's observance of the 23rd International Intellectual Property Day, which featured a range of activities aimed at fostering innovation and creativity.

Director General Weldu Yimesصند He emphasized the significance of creative productions in boosting Ethiopia’s international standing, creating job opportunities, and fostering technological progress.

He emphasized that musical productions, specifically, have significant importance in various sectors. He mentioned that Ethiopia's abundant cultural legacy, principles, and customs provide a solid base for fostering the growth of both music and other creative fields.

Weldu highlighted that the administration is diligently engaged in safeguarding these creative works via innovative frameworks aimed at amplifying their nationwide influence.

The Director General further detailed the organization's enhanced initiatives, encompassing lessons learned from global top-tier methods, bolstering cooperation among stakeholders, and transitioning registration and service procedures to digital formats for greater efficacy and availability.

He pointed out over 5,000 registration and protection services provided in the last year as proof, suggesting that this is modernizing the industry, enhancing accessibility, and guaranteeing benefits for creators.

The State Minister of Innovation and Technology, Bayisa Bedada, similarly highlighted how crucial creative endeavors are for propelling a nation's technological advancement.

He mentioned that a unified legal structure is presently being put into place to protect intellectual property and copyrights, guaranteeing proper safeguards for those who create.

Bayisa highlighted the significance of cooperation to guarantee that artistic creations significantly support national progress, social harmony, and unity. He further emphasized the necessity for ongoing enhancement of safeguards for creators' rights.

The State Minister highlighted the continuous endeavors to completely utilize the economic benefits of the creative sector.

In conjunction with the festivities, an exhibit highlighting numerous artistic creations was officially opened and visited by both participants and honored guests.

The 2023 World Intellectual Property Day spans across two days this year, with the theme "Music and Intellectual Property: Driving and Speeding Up Creativity."