The Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) has wrapped up a two-day intellectual property awareness campaign in Nimba County, marking the first event of its kind in the county.
The initiative, held from September 28 to 29 in the bustling cities of Ganta and Sanniquellie, forms a core part of LIPO’s ongoing three-month campaign aimed at educating Liberians at the grassroots level about intellectual property, with a particular focus on trademarks, copyrights, and piracy.
The Nimba awareness campaign kicked off with radio appearances on Kergheamahn and Voice of Gompa—two of the country’s most popular stations—ensuring that the campaign’s core messages reached a broad audience across the county.
According to Garmai Koboi, Director General of LIPO, “The enthusiasm and interest shown by the people of Nimba in understanding intellectual property were remarkable and encouraging.”
Koboi emphasized that because of Nimba’s economic potential, it is home to a lot of untapped talent, which could thrive with greater awareness of IP laws and their benefits.
“We are investing in providing the knowledge the people of Nimba need to not just protect their ideas but to commercialize them as well,” Koboi added.
Although the concept of intellectual property might seem complex, it is intricately woven into the daily lives of all Liberians. The smartphone, the logo on shoes or clothes, and the software used for work or entertainment are all examples of someone’s or a company’s IP, protected in various forms, and represent common points of human interaction.
The protections provided by IP grant a claim of ownership so that no one can use, copy, or profit from the IP without the owner’s express permission.
The Nimba tour, which follows similar events in Grand Bassa and Montserrado Counties, saw Koboi and her team significantly simplifying the concept of intellectual property and how it can be leveraged to stimulate economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship, and safeguard innovations.
Additionally, a significant focus was placed on the dangers and economic consequences of piracy, which involves the illegal copying and distribution of works such as music, films, and software. Brochures and flyers were distributed to reinforce the campaign’s core messages.
“Every Liberian plays a crucial role in this effort,” Koboi noted. “By respecting intellectual property rights and choosing legitimate products, we contribute to building a more vibrant economy that values and protects creativity.”
Ganta City Mayor Samuel Hardt, expressed his appreciation for LIPO’s efforts, describing it as a historic moment for Nimba County.
Hardt further noted that LIPO’s actions are a vital step toward ensuring that creators and innovators in Nimba County receive the recognition and rewards “they deserve for their work.”
“This visit from LIPO is a pivotal milestone for our city,” Eastman added. “Educating our community about intellectual property creates opportunities for economic empowerment and the growth of our local industries.”
Meanwhile, other elements of LIPO’s three-month campaign include the “Intellectual Property Hour” on JoyFM, a weekly radio show that provides comprehensive insights into various aspects of IP, featuring expert discussions and public engagement.
Simultaneously, the social media campaign utilizes platforms like Facebook to disseminate information, engage the public, and encourage active discussions on intellectual property issues.