MMUST Among Kenya’s First Universities to File International Patent Application
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has emerged among the first universities in Kenya to file an international patent application. This was revealed by the University’s Intellectual Property (IP) Consultant, Advocate Fred Otswong’o, during a recent webinar hosted by MMUST’s Innovation Academy. Held on 23rd May 2025, the webinar themed ‘Demystifying Idea Protection and Intellectual Property’ brought together students, innovators, researchers and faculty from universities across the country. It aimed to equip participants with practical knowledge on safeguarding creative works and technological inventions. The well-attended event featured a compelling keynote address by Advocate Otswong’o, who unpacked key topics such as patent protection, commercialization strategies, and the importance of IP in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
MMUST innovators in November 2024, receive standing ovation in Russia after win.
Speaking on the commercialization of innovations, Advocate Otswong’o underscored the critical role of IP rights in transforming innovations into profitable ventures. He outlined various patenting avenues including local, regional, and international, tailored to an innovator’s market strategy.
“There are several ways to patent an innovation. One can file a local patent in Kenya, a regional patent within Africa, or directly in a target country, particularly where manufacturing or market monopolization is intended. For instance, Kenyans producing goods in China should patent there to prevent local replication and resale. There’s also the option of filing an international patent application, which grants broader protection through a single submission. At MMUST’s Innovation Academy, we assess each innovation’s significance to determine the most suitable protection strategy. I am pleased to inform you that MMUST is among Kenya’s first universities to successfully file international patent applications. While many institutions hesitate due to cost concerns, MMUST took the bold step, and this will go a long way in enhancing the institution’s global visibility as well as attracting partners and international investors,” remarked Advocate Otswong’o.
Intellectual Property (IP) Consultant, Advocate Fred Otswong’o at a past event.
Discussing the role of protecting IPs, Advocate Otswong’o emphasized that IPRs are essential for transforming innovations into viable businesses and creating employment opportunities. He highlighted that MMUST currently holds 35 patents, each with the potential to evolve into start-ups or industries, particularly benefiting the Western region of Kenya.
Addressing the patenting process in Kenya, Advocate Otswong’o noted that the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) has made efforts to clarify patent filing timelines to prevent discouragement among inventors. Further, he stressed the importance of staying informed about rapid technological advancements, such as AI, VR, and IoT, which can affect the uniqueness of innovations.
“Go ahead with your innovation but remember competition is stiff. New creative arts and inventions are being generated every minute. Embrace IPRs, sign confidentiality agreements as well as non-disclosure agreements before you share your innovation with anybody,” he advised.
Ms. Teresia Nyandoro, a Masters student and innovator during the Presidential Innovation Challenge and Award.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, the Chair of the Postgraduate Board, Prof. Mugatsia Tsingalia, also stressed that the protection and commercialization of IPs are vital pillars of innovation-driven economies, particularly in today’s fast-evolving technological landscape. He affirmed that MMUST acknowledges the importance of understanding IPRs as a key step in transforming brilliant ideas into protected and marketable innovations.
“This workshop underscores our commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and commercial application of our IPs by equipping you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Let us journey together to turn complex legal concepts into practical strategies that protect our innovations and position both MMUST and Kenya as leaders in science and technology,” said Prof. Tsingalia.
A section of participants share a virtual group photo after the webinar.
Reiterating, Dr. Tecla Sum, the Director of the Science Park, Innovation and Incubation Centre as well as Head of the Innovation Academy, emphasized MMUST’s dedication to harnessing research and innovation to address societal challenges. “An idea reaches its full potential only when it is effectively commercialized. Our goal is to solve real-world problems, create job opportunities for our youth, and drive economic growth toward a sustainable future. As a university, we are not just generating knowledge, we are building ecosystems where ideas can grow, be protected, and turned into impactful ventures. Through the MMUST Innovation Academy, we are nurturing innovators, supporting start-ups, and creating pathways for research to translate into real-world solutions,” she stated.
Dr. Tecla Sum (Left) together with The DVC ASA, Prof. Hussein Golicha and Ms. Ms. Lucy Kageha At Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OAMK) in Finland.
Established in 2005, the Science Park, Innovation and Incubation Centre (SPIIC) was tasked with developing and managing intellectual property at MMUST. Thanks to visionary leadership, the Centre has fostered a strong culture of innovation among staff, students, and the community. Today, MMUST boasts 69 registered IPs, including 35 patents and 3 international applications. Under the current leadership, the University’s innovations have gained international recognition, with innovators advancing from national Challenges to global platforms. As MMUST continues to equip its innovators with practical IP knowledge through forums like this webinar, it reinforces its role as a hub for transformative solutions.
By Caren Nekesa
