Malawi makes history as first country to ratify WIPO Treaty

By Patience Kapinda

Malawi has become the first country to ratify the WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge.

The treaty addresses the interface between intellectual property, genetic resources, and traditional knowledge.

The journey to the milestone began on May 24, 2024, when the treaty was adopted at a diplomatic conference organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva.

 A total of 38 WIPO member states signed the treaty, signalling their intent to pursue ratification.

However, signing alone does not make the treaty legally binding hence Malawi has taken the lead by depositing its instrument of ratification with WIPO.

"We are proud to be the first country to ratify this historic treaty. This treaty will make the intellectual property system more relevant to our people and local communities," said Malawi's Minister of Justice,” Titus Mvalo.

The WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge aims to prevent biopiracy, promote transparency, and ensure equitable benefit-sharing between countries and communities.

 WIPO Director General Daren Tang said, "This treaty is a significant step towards making the intellectual property system more balanced and inclusive."

 "We hope that other countries will follow Malawi's lead and join the treaty, so that it can come into force quickly and its tangible benefits can start to be felt," he added.

The treaty will takeu effect after 15 instruments of ratification or accession are presented to WIPO.

As the first country to ratify the treaty, Malawi has set the stage for a new era in intellectual property rights, one that prioritizes fairness, transparency, and the empowerment of local communities.