World Day Against Software Patents: Usiano Afrika calls for reform

Dear friends of technology and innovation,

Today, 24 September 2023, we come together to celebrate the World Day Against Software PatentsA day dedicated to reflecting on the impact of software patents on our interconnected world and exploring new ways of fostering innovation and collaboration. It's an honour for me to share a few thoughts on the subject.

When I entered the digital world, our nation and the world were already witnessing an unprecedented technological revolution. Software had become the engine of innovation, transforming the way we work, communicate and live. It was a time of incredible promise, but also of considerable challenge.

Software patents were one such challenge. At a time when technology was evolving at breakneck speed, the software patent system raised concerns about its impact on innovation, access to knowledge and free competition. Software patent litigation may have hampered creativity, slowed the spread of ideas and slowed the pace of innovation.

However, we must also recognise that software patents have played a role in protecting intellectual property rights and have sometimes encouraged investment in research and development. The issue is therefore not to eliminate them completely, but to find a balance that encourages innovation while guaranteeing fair access to technologies.

Today, as we celebrate World Software Patent Day, we need to think about how we can reform and modernise our patent system to meet the needs of the digital age. This means encouraging transparency, collaboration and the dissemination of knowledge, while protecting the rights of inventors and creators.

Together, we can work towards a future where innovation is encouraged, where entrepreneurs can prosper without fear of costly litigation, and where innovative ideas can be shared for the good of all. It's a complex challenge, but I firmly believe in humanity's ability to find creative solutions to the toughest problems.

In a nutshell, I encourage us all to reflect on the importance of this day and take part in the discussions on how we can shape the future of technological innovation. Together, we can continue to move towards a future where technology is a catalyst for progress for all.

Thank you, and may this World Day Against Software Patents be a source of inspiration for us all.

For Usiano Afrika
Roland MANTAMA
Managing Director