The Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) today concluded its three-month public awareness campaign aimed at promoting respect for intellectual property (IP) among the Liberian public.
The campaign, which deepened public understanding of how intellectual property fuels creativity, innovation, and Liberia’s economic growth, ended on a high note with a lively jamboree at Invincible Park near Fish Market on Congo Town Boulevard. The event brought together scores of artists and comedians who share important messages about the role of IP in economic development and why respect for it is crucial.
The closing of the campaign began with an exciting float parade that swept through Monrovia and other parts of Montserrado County, carrying messages about the value of protecting creative and innovative works. The parade sparked public curiosity and inquiries about a host of IP issues, ranging from copyright to trademark restrictions, and how individuals can join the fight against piracy.
Speaking at the close of the campaign in Fish Market, Hon. Garmai Koboi, Director General of LIPO, noted that the “initiative marks a significant step in the Government of Liberia’s effort to equip Liberians with the knowledge to protect and value creative works and innovations.”
Hon. Koboi added that the government’s action would pave the way for greater economic empowerment and technological advancement, in line with President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST agenda.
“This campaign has been about empowering Liberians to understand and protect what they create,” added Koboi. “From musicians to inventors, every creative person deserves to benefit from their hard work. Promoting respect for intellectual property is essential to building a stronger and more innovative Liberia.”
During the campaign, visits were made to Nimba and Grand Bassa, with stops in Margibi and Bong Counties, to engage Liberians living in rural and urban areas of Montserrado County, with awareness messages geared towards promoting respect for IP.
The campaign, which originally opened in Montserrado, included additional components such as a social media campaign and a weekly radio show. The weekly radio program featured lively discussions on IP issues, while social media platforms— all geared towards ensuring wider reach to almost every corner of Liberia.
Hon. Clarence H. Cole, Deputy Director General for Copyright at LIPO, noted that building respect for intellectual property is essential in creating a thriving creative economy; as such, the campaign has not only raised awareness but also inspired trust in Liberia’s IP framework, which is key to nurturing innovation and progress.
“This is just the beginning. This campaign has opened doors for greater understanding and appreciation of IP rights, but there’s more work to do,” Hon. Cole added. “Protecting intellectual property strengthens our creative industries and builds trust in our systems.”
Also speaking, veteran Liberian musician Amaze, noted that the campaign had sparked a deeper understanding of intellectual property, not just among artists but among many Liberians in the counties visited.
According to Amaze, the groundbreaking initiative has empowered the creative sector by showing that their work is valued and protected. The awareness, he added, has set a foundation for a stronger, more vibrant creative industry in Liberia.
“For me, this has been a game-changer. Artists are now realizing the value of their work and the importance of protecting it,” said Amaze while performing at Fish Market. “It’s inspiring to see the change this campaign is bringing to our creative community.”
Meanwhile, the three-month campaign by LIPO is in alignment with President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST agenda, empowering Liberians with the tools and knowledge to foster economic growth and national development.
