The Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission (AU), Albert M. Muchanga, expressed this while mentioning the role of intellectual property in inclusive economic growth and sustainable development on the continent.
Muchanga said the event held from December 9 to 13 under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence, Green Industrialization and Intellectual Property for Africa’s Transformation” is in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063.
Similarly, he added, it aligns with the African focus on science, technology, and innovation, seen as key drivers of transformation.
He underscored the need to encourage start-ups and manufacturing on the continent and mentioned the AU Women in Manufacturing Program designed to empower women in industrialization. He also noted the challenges that exist with patent registration in Africa. The Director General of the Manufacturing Industry Development Institute, Milkesa Jagema, representing the Ministry of Industry of Ethiopia, stressed the importance of the event in shaping the future of the African sector.
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