“Ghana Commits to Preserving Biodiversity and Indigenous Heritage by Signing Landmark Treaty”
- Ghana signs treaty to protect genetic resources.
- Recognizes Indigenous peoples' contributions to biodiversity.
- Prevents erroneous patent grants.
- Demonstrates commitment to sustainable development.
Ghana has made history by signing a landmark treaty aimed at protecting genetic resources and traditional knowledge associated with them. The treaty, adopted at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Diplomatic Conference, recognizes the significant contributions of Indigenous peoples and local communities to preserving biodiversity.
The 12-day conference, held from May 13th to 24th, 2024, brought together experts from around the world to negotiate the treaty. The treaty seeks to prevent erroneous patent grants for inventions related to genetic resources and traditional knowledge, enhancing the patent system’s efficacy, transparency, and quality.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice of Ghana, Hon. Diana Asonaba Dapaah, signed the treaty on behalf of the country, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice expressed gratitude to the experts who represented Ghana at the conference, including Prof. Hans Adu Dapaah and Prof. Paul Kuruk.
Special thanks were also extended to Amb. Emmanuel Antwi and Mrs. Audrey Neequaye of the Ghana Permanent Mission in Geneva for promoting Ghana’s interests in the discussions. The treaty is a significant step towards sustainable development and recognizes the importance of traditional knowledge and genetic resources.
Ghana’s signing of the treaty demonstrates its commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting the rights of Indigenous peoples and local communities. The country’s leadership in this historic achievement is a testament to its dedication to sustainable development and the protection of traditional knowledge and genetic resources.
