As of July 2025, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) is part of the UPOV PRISMA platform—an international tool that simplifies Plant Variety Protection (PVP) applications across 70+ jurisdictions. This move follows the Arusha Protocol’s entry into force in November 2024, strengthening legal frameworks for new plant varieties in several African countries including Cabo Verde, Ghana, Rwanda, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

Applicants are now allowed to submit their applications directly to ARIPO via a unified digital interface, with real-time tracking, automated language support, and the option to reuse data from past submissions.

“This marks a significant milestone in modernizing the administration of Plant Breeders’ Rights across our Member States,” said ARIPO Director General Bemanya Twebaze, while UPOV Vice Secretary-General Yolanda Huerta called the collaboration “a shared commitment to supporting breeders and strengthening food security across the region.”

With UPOV PRISMA now covering 36+ PVP Offices, the addition of ARIPO enhances accessibility and transparency by removing postal delays and supporting applicants in meeting novelty deadlines.

The integration is designed to improve efficiency and expand access to plant variety rights, supporting broader efforts to strengthen agricultural innovation throughout the region.

Source: ARIPO website