Data from Rwanda Development Board shows that the number of Intellectual Property (IP) applications is growing progressively compared to the applications that were received before 2009.

6,778 trademark applications have been made since independence (1962) to 2009, and 1,600 applications in 2021 alone.

Among 1600 applications received, 910 are local applications including startups. This number has been attributed to awareness programmes that helped local applicants and business people understand and appreciate the benefits of IP protection.

Unlike the copyright works- like movies, books and other artworks, for which the protection is automatic on creation, the IP protection is acquired by registration. 

As a result, a big number of applications are trademarks, followed by copyright applications, utility models and industrial designs.

While there is some progress with regard to IP applications, there is much more to be done considering the high number of start-ups and business ventures debuting in the local market.

Further review of available data shows that there are more registered patents and utility models compared to innovations that are created versus to the registered ones.

This is because patents and utility model applications require a high level of technicality in terms of patent documents drafting and requirements to fulfil the inventiveness. As a result, it is not easy for startups to have support from experts who can help them to draft patent applications.

To drive uptake, there is need for more efforts to promote awareness on the need for IP registration as well as the need to. Further, the concerned agencies and entities should consider reviewing processes and procedures involved in IP application and registration.

The more complex and complicated the process may be perceived to be, the higher the chances that firms and start-ups are likely to keep away from IP applications and registration.