The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has played a pivotal role in elevating one of Africa’s finest spices: ‘Penja Pepper’ to global recognition. Through technical assistance and institutional cooperation provided via the EU-funded Intellectual Property Rights and Innovation in Africa project (AfrIPI), the EUIPO was instrumental in achieving its registration as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) in the European Union. This official recognition was granted on 22 March 2022.

This achievement marked a significant milestone: Penja Pepper became the first product from the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) region, and the second from Africa, to receive PGI status in the EU. This opened the door for other traditional African products to access international markets under the protection of intellectual property rights. The EUIPO in close collaboration with the OAPI and the Groupement Représentatif IGP Poivre de Penja (GR.IGPP) provided comprehensive technical assistance throughout the registration process. This included support in capacity building, traceability systems, and legal frameworks, ensuring they met the EU’s rigorous GI standards.

The first International Penja Pepper festival, held from 24 to 26 June 2025 in Penja, Cameroon, promoting the authenticity of the spice and honouring the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved in the GI process. The event increased the product’s visibility, forged new commercial partnerships, and highlighted the vital role of GIs in regional development.

As one of the festival’s sponsors and active participants, the EU-funded AfrIPI project contributed to the event by delivering presentations on the EU’s support to GIs in Africa; printing promotional material; and hosting a booth at the fair to engage with visitors and highlight the EU’s support in the region. While this forms part of the EUIPO’s ongoing engagement with GI initiatives, the festival stands out as a milestone: the first-ever celebration of a GI in sub-Saharan Africa to gain international recognition with the EUIPO’s support.

This success story reflects a broader continental shift as GIs across Africa are gaining traction as powerful tools for sustainable development. Beyond legal protection, GIs empower communities by creating economic value, enhancing product reputation, and foster inclusive rural growth. It is a powerful example of sustainable impact and strong local ownership.

The EUIPO remains a steadfast partner in advancing Africa’s dynamic GI ecosystem, protecting traditional knowledge, promoting global recognition of local products, and transforming origin-linked goods into drivers of inclusive economic growth. Through this commitment, the EUIPO is helping unlock the full potential of intellectual property as a lever for sustainable development, rural empowerment, and international market integration.