The Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has launched a groundbreaking course aimed at equipping Rwandans with the skills and knowledge to protect intellectual property (IP). The initiative seeks to address challenges in safeguarding creative works, research, and innovations.
The launch ceremony, held on the evening of October 30, 2025, brought together government officials, legal practitioners, artists, and other stakeholders. Among those present were Minister of Trade and Industry Sebahizi Prudence, Minister of Justice Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, and State Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development Umutoni Sandrine.
ILPD Director General Dr. Muyoboke Karimunda Aime said the program will fill a critical skills gap in Rwanda. “We faced a challenge where there were few lawyers with experience in this field. This course will address that gap, increasing the number of people who know at least their fundamental rights,” he explained.
Scheduled to begin on December 1, 2025, the three-month online course will be the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to help participants navigate intellectual property rights in business, technology, and creative industries.
Artists and professionals stand to gain significantly from the program. Musician and medical doctor Dr. Muyombo Thomas, popularly known as Tom Close, said the course will benefit both creators and the professionals supporting them. “This course will help artists understand and protect their rights and will also equip those supporting artists with sufficient knowledge on what to safeguard and how to utilize it,” he said.
Minister of Justice Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja emphasized that the initiative aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, which envisions a knowledge-driven economy. “To achieve our Vision 2050 goals, we will continue to promote intellectual property rights across education, industry, technology, and cultural institutions. The government will support the protection of ideas as a channel for development and research,” he said.
ILPD noted that intellectual property currently contributes only 5% to Rwanda’s GDP, compared with 45% in Europe. By expanding expertise in IP protection, the course aims to strengthen Rwanda’s creative economy, promote innovation, and enhance the value of intellectual assets nationwide.
