U.S. To Host Digital Press Briefing On How IP Protections Can Grow Africa’s Creative Economy

By Ross Moyo

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office will host a digital press briefing on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, focused on the role of intellectual property in driving Africa’s creative economy.

The briefing will feature Katherine M. Hiner, the U.S. Intellectual Property Attaché for Sub-Saharan Africa, based at the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg.

According to the advisory, Ms. Hiner will speak on how U.S. IP protections have fueled the American economy, particularly the music industry, and how similar protections can act as a catalyst for growth in Africa.

“IP protections serve as the foundation for creativity, investment, and economic opportunities,” the briefing note states.

EVENT DETAILS
Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Time: 13:00 SAST (Southern Africa standard time)- that’s the time in Harare or Pretoria, Johannesburg | 11:00 UTC | 07:00 EDT Washington D.C.
Language: English
Format: On record via Zoom
RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/august-19-digital-press-briefing-on-ip-for-growth-tickets-1997956190750

Journalists are encouraged to submit questions in advance via Eventbrite or by email to [email protected]. Participants should log in 10 minutes early. Transcripts in English and French will be provided to registered journalists after the briefing.

Technical support will also be available through [email protected].