ECOWAS Launches Japan-funded App to Boost Creativity in West Africa

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

AfricDeezayn application has been officially launched in West Africa to provide a virtual online space for designers in the sub-region to showcase their creativity and talent and interact as a community.

The project, which is a creation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is supported by Japan and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).

Speaking at the launch in Abuja yesterday, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandje Toure-Litse said AfricDeezayn the digital tool will enable talented designers in West Africa to contribute to the region’s industrial development by stimulating innovation.

Toure-Litse, who was represented by Dr. Anthony Elumelu, said the app goes beyond visual appearance to include usability, ergonomics, accessibility and other aspects.

She noted that AfricDeezayn application developed in collaboration with WIPO and funded by Japan is closely aligned with the vision of ECOWAS to promote technological innovation, job creation and creation of an appropriate environment which will lead to wealth and economic and social progress.

She said the project was in line with ECOWAS commission’s aim of promoting sustainable and inclusive agricultural, industrial and intellectual productivity.

  “This is an opportunity for us to call on the private sector players in our region, particularly those in the design community to take ownership of this tool and use it as a potential vector for innovation and improved productivity,” she said.

On his part, the Senior Director, Department for Trademarks, Industrial Designs and Geographical Indications (DTIDGI), Brands and Designs Sector (BDS), WIPO, Mr. Marcus Hopperger, said the app is a bridge between the people at the core of WIPO’s institutional efforts.

“We represent organisations committed to promoting IP as a tool for development and growth. AfricDeezayn opens to us the virtual world of communication.

“It is helping our outreach to key stakeholders of the design ecosystem – designers, small and large businesses, IP practitioners and agents, the academe, women and youth groups – to more effectively address their information needs so that IP rights over designs are protected and the resulting benefits are fully enjoyed by their creators,” he said.

He added: “AfricDeezayn does more than inform.  It also shares the stories of many designers, whether young and mature entrepreneurs – their struggles and rewards, their aspirations and journey.“

Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Matsunaga Kazuyoshi said AfricDeezayn will create great opportunity for development in West Africa, noting that with resources like AfricDeezayn, designers in the ECOWAS region can achieve great wealth.

He said: “This app isn’t just about information, it’s a catalyst for connection within the global design community. This innovative platform, the first of its kind, connects designers with opportunities, funding and businesses, fostering collaboration and a robust design ecosystem in the ECOWAS region and beyond.”