The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) on Monday, April 20, held a breakfast meeting with sports federations, associations, and journalists aimed at exploring the role of Intellectual Property (IP) in safeguarding and commercializing sports in Uganda.
The engagement took place at the Uganda Business Facilitation Centre (UBFC) in Kololo as part of preparations for the upcoming World Intellectual Property Day celebrations scheduled for April 24.
This year’s global theme, “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate,” highlights the growing connection between innovation and sports development.
One of the key discussions during the meeting centered on the distinction between patents and trademarks, with participants seeking clarity on what each protects and how they apply within the sports industry.
It was also noted that many sports-related ideas, brands, logos, and creative elements have not yet been trademarked in Uganda’s register. This presents an opportunity for creators, organizers, and businesses to formally protect and commercialize their innovations.
Speaking during a media briefing, the Commissioner for Intellectual Property, Mr. Robert Mugabe, emphasized the value of branding in sports.
“Every jersey, logo, and team identity represents valuable intellectual property. As we advance sports development, it is important to recognize, protect, and leverage IP as a key driver of growth and value,” he said.
Deputy Registrar General in charge of Registries, Ntale Mustapher, applauded the media for its role in public education.
“The media plays a powerful role in shaping public understanding. You are educators, storytellers, and agenda setters. Through your platforms, intellectual property can move from being a technical legal concept to something practical, relatable, and impactful,” he said.
The engagement forms part of a series of activities leading to the World Intellectual Property Day celebrations, which will be held on Friday, April 24, 2025, at the Uganda Business Facilitation Centre in Kololo.
