Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Online Reporter
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) has praised Zimbabwe’s unique local products, describing them as not only symbols of identity but also engines of sustainable economic opportunity with significant potential to drive development and gain global recognition.
This was said by Mrs Wang Binying, Deputy Director General of the Brands and Designs Sector at WIPO, during her opening remarks at the official launch of the Worldwide Symposium on Geographical Indications in Victoria Falls on Friday.
Mrs Binying commended Zimbabwe’s intention to accede to the Geneva Act, stating that it reflects a vision that recognises the power of Geographical Indications (GIs). GIs are distinctive signs used to identify products originating from specific geographical areas, where the quality, reputation, or characteristics of the product are intrinsically linked to their place of origin.
“Zimbabwe is a country where the connection between place, tradition, and product is vividly alive. Over the course of our discussions, we have seen how Zimbabwe’s unique local products—rooted in land, heritage, and local knowledge—are not only symbols of identity but also engines of sustainable economic opportunity,” she said.
“Zimbabwe’s intent to accede to the Geneva Act reflects a clear vision—one that recognises the power of geographical indications to protect identity, drive development, and showcase cultural heritage on a global stage,” Mrs Binying added.
These efforts align with a growing international trend. Mrs Binying noted that with seven new accessions since the last symposium, the Lisbon Union now includes 73 countries—a clear indication of the increasing value member states place on geographical origin as a source of both economic and cultural strength.
“At WIPO, our support does not end with accession or GI registrations. We are committed to working alongside member states and communities to help transform legal recognition into lasting impact,” she said.
She said Uganda was a notable example, where WIPO supported the development of the country’s first registered GI—Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee. The project engaged over 200 participants, from cooperatives to judicial officials, through training, awareness campaigns, and promotional support. This initiative addressed post-registration challenges and developed scalable solutions for national and regional use.
“This is just one example of how locally rooted action, supported by strong partnerships, can bring GIs to life beyond the registration phase,” Mrs Binying said. “Whether through better governance, stronger producer associations, or improved access to value chains, WIPO continues to work alongside national and local partners to build resilient, inclusive, and scalable systems.”
Held for the first time in Africa—specifically in Zimbabwe—this year’s symposium explored themes central to WIPO’s mission. Thursday’s sessions featured engaging discussions on international developments and insights into the intersection between GIs and common names. On Friday, following the official opening, discussions shifted to critical themes such as the relationship between GIs and tourism, traditional knowledge, sustainability, and governance.
Mrs Binying said the value of GIs is often inseparable from the places they represent, making Victoria Falls—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a fitting venue.
“Victoria Falls is not only a natural wonder but also a powerful symbol of how geography shapes identity. It reminds us that places are more than physical; they are cultural, emotional, and, when carefully protected, deeply transformational. This is precisely what geographical indications seek to reflect and preserve,” she said.
