As businesses expand into Africa, managing intellectual property (IP) across different legal and regulatory systems is becoming increasingly complex. Adams & Adams says combining strong local expertise with regional coordination will be critical to helping businesses protect, commercialise and enforce their IP as they grow.
The firm reinforced this focus at its 13th annual Africa Network Meeting, held in Pretoria from 2 to 4 September 2026 under the theme ‘Playing to Win: Building Advantage Through IP’. The meeting brought together more than 90 delegates from 26 countries, including IP practitioners, regulators, multinational companies and regional organisations.
The Adams & Adams Africa Network brings together IP professionals across African markets, supported by central coordination, due diligence and ongoing engagement. This managed network is designed to give international and African businesses access to trusted local knowledge, while providing greater consistency when handling IP matters across multiple jurisdictions.
Simon Brown, Partner at Adams & Adams and Chairperson of the firm’s Africa Strategy Committee and Africa IP Committee, said: “Businesses operating across Africa are increasingly looking for ways to simplify the complexity of managing intellectual property across multiple jurisdictions. They need access to trusted local expertise, but they also need consistency and confidence that their interests are being managed effectively across markets. That is where a coordinated network can create meaningful value.”
Established in 2012 as an internal partner gathering, the Africa Network Meeting has grown into one of the leading forums on IP in Africa. The annual meeting brings together the firm’s partners, IP offices, regulators and businesses to share knowledge and consider developments affecting IP on the continent. This year’s attendance included representatives from Adams & Adams’ Pan-African network of 24 offices in approximately 20 markets, as well as stakeholders from the broader IP ecosystem.
Discussions focused on the strategic role of IP in supporting business growth, investment and competitive advantage. Delegates examined brand protection, commercialisation, licensing, strategic partnerships, trade mark practices, ambush marketing and emerging developments in regional IP systems.
Updates from the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), the Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle (OAPI), the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) and Zambia’s Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) provided insight into regulatory developments and opportunities for greater regional cooperation.
Former South African international goalkeeper Andre Arendse opened the meeting with a keynote address drawing parallels between elite sporting performance and the strategic use of IP in business.
For businesses operating across multiple markets, the event highlighted three priorities: treating IP as a strategic business asset; putting protection strategies in place early to support growth and investment; and working with local advisers and regulators to navigate different legal and commercial environments.
The meeting also saw the launch of the inaugural Africa Network Awards, recognising professionals for excellence, collaboration and service within the network. The awards will become a permanent feature of future meetings, recognising the contribution of individuals and organisations to stronger professional collaboration and client service.
Nicky Garnett, Partner and Head of the Africa Patent Practice at Adams & Adams, said: “The businesses best positioned to succeed will be those that understand the value of what they create and take deliberate steps to protect and commercialise it. Strong IP systems and trusted relationships will be essential to helping businesses compete, expand and attract investment across Africa.”