The National Intellectual Property Policy and the Security Interest in Movable Property Registry (SIMPO) has been launched by President Yoweri Museveni . At the launch Uganda’s top innovations like Kiira Motors green mobility technologies whose intellectual property has been registered and secured at the Uganda Registration Service Bureau (URSB), were recognized .
President Museveni said that government continues to support all innovations aimed at increasing the profitability of Ugandans engaged in various enterprises. “The National Intellectual Property Policy will give innovators the full protection of the law through patents, copyright, trademarks etc. This will enable these innovators to earn their rightful recognition and financial returns for their toil and sweat,” he said.
He said that it was important that Government creates an environment where creativity and innovation can thrive. “The improvement in the quality of human life and man’s transition from a primitive existence to modernity are attributed to the discoveries in medicine, engineering, architecture. It is through the creations of the human mind that we have been able to tame nature throughout the four and a half million years of man’s existence on earth. Therefore, it is crucial that individuals or groups are rewarded for their innovations. “
At a function held at State House in Entebbe , and attended by Mr. Bemanya Twebaze the Registrar General and Official Receiver Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) Museveni said that one could not talk about Intellectual Property Rights without addressing the issue of funding scientists who are behind most of the innovations which benefit many people.
The President emphasized that Uganda ‘s drive towards industrialisation is based on scientific research and innovation to support value addition for local products.
The National Intellectual Property Policy also protects the creative works of artists like songs, paintings and literary writings . For many years, African Literature was mainly oral and was passed on from generation to generation through storytelling, songs, chants .
“There is now an opportunity to preserve our rich African Literature through copyright. The same will apply to the local music productions by some of our young people that Ugandans like listening to. This is a significant achievement which will encourage the development of talent and reward the hard work of dedicated individuals in the entertainment industry, Museveni stated .
Ho noted that the Security Interest in Movable Property Registry System will enable Ugandans to use their moveable assets as collateral to borrow money for their businesses from financial institutions.
