The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, in partnership with key stakeholders, has launched the dissemination of Uganda’s ICT Intellectual Property (IP) Guidelines, a significant step in protecting and commercialising innovation in the country’s fast-growing technology sector.
Developed under the UJ-Connect initiative with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Ministry of Justice, Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), KTA Advocates, and other key partners, the guidelines provide a structured framework for managing, owning, and monetising intellectual property in Uganda.
The ICT IP Guidelines are designed to ignite innovation, promote adherence to best practices, regulate and safeguard intellectual property rights, and facilitate commercialisation to boost economic growth.
Speaking at the dissemination workshop held at the Innovation Village, Commissioner of Communications Moses Watasa, delivering remarks on behalf of Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, emphasised the importance of integrating ICT across various sectors while ensuring a robust legal framework to deter intellectual property rights violations.
“These guidelines provide a clear roadmap for innovators, particularly those developing ICT solutions for government and public use, to secure their creations and maximize their economic potential,” Watasa said.
To ensure widespread adoption, the ministry plans to conduct nationwide workshops to equip innovators with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the legal and commercial aspects of intellectual property.
Additionally, communication channels such as radio, television, and digital platforms will be leveraged to maximize outreach.
The launch of these guidelines is expected to foster a thriving innovation ecosystem, encourage the development of groundbreaking ICT solutions, and drive Uganda’s digital transformation and economic growth.
For innovators and stakeholders, this initiative presents a vital opportunity to safeguard their intellectual property while contributing to the nation’s technological advancement.
