In this multimedia teaching resource, Christoph Spennemann, of UNCTAD’s International Property Unit, explains how East African countries have used TRIPS(*) flexibilities to promote the production of local pharmaceuticals while dealing with challenges posed by counterfeiting and sub-standard drugs.
Spennemann begins with an introduction to patent rights and intellectual property, access to quality medicine in Africa, and local production initiatives. He then moves on to describe anti-counterfeit initiatives in East Africa, and compares relevant laws in Kenya, Uganda, and the East African Community.
(*)Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights