LEAST Developed Countries (LDCs) have been urged to update their Intellectual Property (IP) policies to keep pace with the rapidly evolving global landscape.

Prof William Anangisye, Vice Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) made the call in Dar es Salaam yesterday during World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) training-of-trainers programme aimed at establishing an IP hub for Eastern Africa.

He said as global markets become increasingly interconnected, LDCs need to ensure their IP frameworks align with international standards to compete effectively in the global economy and facilitate participation in trade.

Prof. Anangisye emphasized that effective IP management is crucial for the economic transformation of developing countries.

He noted that strong IP policies can drive economic growth by fostering innovation and attracting foreign investment, creating a more favorable environment for businesses and startups.

“Training programmes like this are essential. By investing in skilled trainers, we lay a foundation for a more knowledgeable and capable workforce that can advance IP systems across Africa and beyond,” he said.

He highlighted that strong IP frameworks can foster local industry growth, support research and development, and facilitate commercialization of inventions, literary works and artistic creations.

“Countries with robust IP systems are better positioned to attract foreign investment, facilitate technology transfer and boost economic growth,” he said.

However, Prof. Anangisye acknowledged the challenges many African countries, including Tanzania, face in strengthening their IP frameworks to fully realize the benefits. He stressed the importance of continuously updating IP policies to address complexities of IP law and rapid advancements in global trade, technology and innovation.

Godfrey Nyaisa, Chief Executive Officer of Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA), noted that the agency collaborates with WIPO to train professionals who will further educate others about IP.

He pointed out that knowledge of IP remains limited in Tanzania, often leaving innovations unprotected or underdeveloped.

“There are innovations that lack quality while others need improvement to meet formal criteria. Some creators have viable innovations but don’t know how to formalize their work. When properly formalized, creativity can generate substantial wealth,” he said.

In response to the pressing need for greater IP awareness, BRELA and WIPO initiated the training programme which includes participants from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana and Malawi.

“We included participants from other African countries because IP education is greatly needed across the continent. We expect this training to have a positive impact in Africa and beyond,” he said.