"To EAC according to its needs ..."

The Protocol on the Establishment of the East African Community Common Market, established under Articles 76 and 104 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community (EAC), became operational on 1 July 2010.  This Protocol establishes a common market between Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, Uganda and Rwanda; it is hoped that this will enable the five member states to enjoy accelerated economic growth and development, extending economic and social cooperation among the member states.

Articles 5(3)(k) and 43 of the Protocol require member states to cooperate in the area of IP rights. This cooperation is expected to include measures to prevent infringement, misuse and abuse of intellectual property and the setting up of mechanisms to fight piracy and counterfeiting.

Source: "Towards Community IP rights protection: the East African Common Market Protocol", article in International Law Office by Anthony Gakuru (Njoroge Regeru & Company), from which further particulars may be discovered.


Afro Leo hopes to hear lots about the progress made by the EAC towards its IP aims and objectives. If you have any useful news or insights, do let him know.