Protecting the value of Somali ideas and products
Somalia’s draft intellectual property framework addresses brands, copyright, product origin and the use of traditional knowledge.
A product’s value includes its name, design, origin and reputation. Somalia’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry is developing an intellectual property policy and legal framework to help businesses and communities protect that value.
A draft framework for local innovation
From August 29–31, 2026, the Ministry convened a national validation workshop in Mogadishu, supported by the World Bank through HoA DRIVE Somalia. Stakeholders validated a draft package covering policy, legislation, regulations, practical guidance, institutional development and training.
The draft covers copyright protection for creators and measures against counterfeit goods that misuse business brands.
Connecting products with their place of origin
The framework proposes a route to protecting products such as frankincense, myrrh and camel products through geographical indications. These protect names associated with the qualities or reputation of a particular place.
For producers, such protection can help distinguish products and challenge misuse of their names. The draft also provides for communities’ prior informed consent and fair benefit-sharing when traditional knowledge and genetic resources are used commercially or for research.
DRIVE supports the Ministry’s development of the policy, law and digital systems for a modern intellectual property system. The work complements wider trade reforms and efforts to align Somalia’s framework with regional and international standards.
