includes index

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Intellectual property and the public interest in Africa -- National IP policy frameworks in Africa -- Regional Economic Communities, trade and IP -- Sub-regional IP organisations -- Key considerations in the development of a continental IP system -- Continental IP co-operation : PAIPO -- Intellectual property in the African continental free trade area -- Harmony or discord? Lessons for the future African continental IP system.

"Examining the harmonisation of Intellectual Property policy, law and administration in Africa, this book evaluates the effectiveness of efforts to establish continental Intellectual Property institutions and frameworks. It also considers sub-regional initiatives led by the regional economic communities and the regional Intellectual Property organisations, focusing on relevant protocols and agreements that address Intellectual Property as well as the implementing institutions. The book assesses the progress of such initiatives with particular reference to the current socio-economic status of African states. It argues that that harmonisation initiatives need to be crafted in a way that is supportive of the developmental goals of African states and advocates for due consideration of individual states' unique conditions and aspirations. This book will be of great relevance to scholars and policy makers with an interest in Intellectual Property law and its harmonisation in Africa"--