By Efe Onodjae

International Intellectual Property (IP) advocate, David Jeng, has called on African countries to strengthen their IP protection frameworks to safeguard the continent’s growing creative industry.

He stressed that stronger policies are necessary to ensure fair rewards for creators, boost skills development, and widen distribution opportunities across Africa.

Jeng, a Gambian entrepreneur and international business consultant, made the call while stressing that copyright, trademark, and patent systems have undergone significant changes affecting education, entertainment, and business sectors.

“The protection of intellectual property is essential for empowering creators, safeguarding cultural heritage, and driving innovation across every sector. Having robust intellectual property policies in Africa is crucial for economic growth and development,” he said.

Jeng, a member of the National Intellectual Property Council of The Gambia, has been involved in shaping frameworks to support innovation, IP protection, and commercialization in collaboration with government, the private sector, and international partners.

He noted that the rise of digital technologies, particularly generative artificial intelligence (AI), has further exposed gaps in Africa’s IP systems, making it imperative for creatives and policymakers to adapt. According to him, AI and digital platforms are reshaping the creative industry, enabling artists, designers and content creators to reach global markets, while raising fresh questions about IP rights.

Jeng advised young creatives and technology innovators to fully embrace emerging technologies, while taking steps to safeguard their rights within the ambit of the law. He also urged African governments to respond more effectively to the needs of the creative and innovation sector, and to promote collaboration with stakeholders to create an enabling environment for growth.

Over the years, Jeng has served as consultant to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and Japan Patent Office (JPO) on various IP capacity-building programmes, including training sessions for young entrepreneurs, women in agribusiness, and small enterprises. He also participated in Ethiopia’s IP Week 2024, where he engaged parliamentarians, policymakers, and private sector players on strengthening innovation systems.

Jeng maintained that intellectual property remains central to Africa’s economic transformation, particularly in driving innovation, fostering business growth, and positioning local creators in global market