ICGEB collaborates to strengthen Intellectual Property Capacity for Health Research and Technology Transfer.
Kigali, Rwanda, 2-4 June 2026: Transforming scientific discoveries into health solutions requires more than excellent research; it requires the knowledge, partnerships, and innovation frameworks that enable ideas to reach the people who need them most.
To support this vision, the ICGEB joined forces with the University of Rwanda, Team Europe MAV+, and Sida to deliver a three-day training programme on Intellectual Property (IP) Management and Technology Transfer for the Health Sector in Kigali.
The training brought together University of Rwanda PhD and postdoctoral researchers supported through the MAV+ programme alongside representatives from national institutions, universities, innovation support organisations, and private-sector companies. The event reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Rwanda’s capacity to translate research excellence into health technologies, products, and services with real societal impact.
Throughout the programme, participants explored how IP is not merely a legal consideration but a strategic tool for innovation. Discussions highlighted that every research and development output may hold intellectual property value and that effective IP management must begin at the earliest stages of a research project.
Strengthening Technology Transfer Ecosystems
A central focus of the programme was the role of technology transfer in transforming scientific knowledge into accessible health solutions.
Experts from across Africa and Europe highlighted how successful innovation ecosystems depend on continuous interaction between science, law, business, and policy. Technology transfer was presented as an iterative process requiring collaboration among researchers, universities, industry, investors, and regulatory authorities.
The programme also explored the importance of establishing clear agreements before collaborative research begins. By defining expectations early, institutions create trusted partnerships that accelerate innovation while ensuring fair recognition and benefit sharing.
The training contributes directly to broader efforts to strengthen Rwanda’s emerging bioeconomy and position the country as a regional hub for health innovation.
Participants explored how universities and industry can work together more effectively to develop health products that respond to local and regional needs. By strengthening intellectual property literacy and technology transfer capabilities, the programme helps create the conditions necessary for scientific discoveries to generate economic value, attract investment, and ultimately improve health outcomes.
The event also reinforced a broader vision shared by ICGEB and its partners: that Africa’s future health innovations will be developed by African scientists, institutions, and entrepreneurs.
Ms. Elena Benedetti, Head of Technology Transfer and Innovation at ICGEB, stated: “Intellectual assets provide a foundation, but continuous innovation is what ultimately drives impact. Building strong innovation ecosystems today will help ensure that tomorrow’s medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and biotechnologies emerge from laboratories across the continent and reach the communities they are designed to serve.”
Through initiatives such as this, ICGEB continues to support the development of innovation ecosystems that connect research with industry, strengthen local capabilities, and accelerate the delivery of health solutions where they are needed most.
The programme featured contributions from experts representing academia, government, industry, innovation support organisations, and international partners, including:
Cyridion Nsengumuremyi (Institute of Legal Practice and Development), Kellen Twinamatsiko (Rwanda Development Board), Leónidas Leiva (Team Europe Support Structure for the AU-EU Health Partnership), Louis Sibomana and Didacienne Mukanyiligira (National Council for Science and Technology), Theophile Niyonzima (University of Rwanda), Ralf Elben (GIZ Rwanda-Burundi), Teresa Soop (Sida), Elena Villanueva Olivo (Medicines Patent Pool), Tebogo Machethe (Wits Innovation Centre), Nolene Singh (Innovus Stellenbosch University), Rajen Naidoo (Afrigen Biologics) and Ajax Mbayiha (Angaza Capital).
