By Nevison Mpofu
Women in business are being encouraged to register and legally protect their enterprises through Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), a crucial step towards sustainable growth and empowerment.
Commercial law expert Natasha Mashonganyika emphasized the importance of securing title deeds and legal recognition for businesses.
She noted that operating within a protected legal framework empowers women and shields their businesses from exploitation.
“Women must protect their businesses and ideas through proper registration,” Mashonganyika said. “Legal protection fosters stability and creates a foundation for long-term success, even in volatile markets.”
She highlighted that monetizing ideas and securing brand identity are vital for growth. “IP gives you ownership over your creations—whether it’s a product, brand, or innovation—and that protection is key in today’s competitive world.”
Senior legal practitioner Rachel Chibaya echoed this, advising women to avoid sharing business ideas before securing legal protection. “Get registered first. Your rights become your shield against intellectual theft,” she said. “Many businesses collapse simply because they lack legal grounding.”
Chibaya also urged women to understand governance and compliance to avoid risks such as theft, plagiarism, and capital loss. “Registered businesses are better protected and supported by legal systems and government policy.”
Understanding Intellectual Property (IP)
IP refers to the legal rights over creations of the mind. There are six key types:
Patents – Protect scientific inventions
Copyrights – Safeguard writers, artists, and musicians
Trademarks – Represent brands through logos, colors, or slogans
Trade Secrets – Guard confidential business information
Franchises – License business models
Digital Assets – Include domain names, software, and digital content
Organizations like ARIPO (African Regional Intellectual Property Organization) play a key role in supporting entrepreneurs across Africa by ensuring fair protection of intellectual assets.
Empowering women with legal tools and IP knowledge not only safeguards their innovations but also strengthens their contribution to national and community development.
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