Cooperatives among 2,000 business entities at risk of losing trademarks
If deleted, businesses would lose both their legal protection and exclusive rights to their brand names, opening the door for others to claim ownership of the same or similar trademarks
KAMPALA, July 16, 2025 – – The Uganda Registration Services Bureau [URSB] has issued a warning to at least 2,000 businesses, including several cooperatives, that their registered trademarks risk being deleted from the national registry due to failure to renew their registration.
The URSB recently issued a 60-day ultimatum to all affected entities, urging them to comply with the renewal requirements or risk permanent removal from the register. The deadline follows non-compliance with the renewal process stipulated under the Trademarks Act, Cap 225, and the Trademarks Regulations 2023.
If deleted, businesses would lose both their legal protection and exclusive rights to their brand names, opening the door for others to claim ownership of the same or similar trademarks.
The list includes a number of Emyooga SACCOs such as: Kagembe Youths SACCO [Luweero]; Kadeluna Twekolere SACCO [Budaka district]; Katoogo Women’s SACCO [Masaka district]; and Kyetume Development Link SACCO [Mukono district].
among others.
Also named are various cooperatives, including: Taqdum Traders’ Cooperative [Kampala]; Kigga Maize Farmers’ Cooperative [Kiryandongo district]; Bisenyi Farmers’ Cooperative [Masindi district]; and Pirir Oil Seed Farmers [Teso Subregion], as well as other financial and agricultural cooperatives from across the country.
In a statement, URSB stressed that failure to renew within the specified timeframe would result in the permanent deletion of the trademark from the register. Once deleted, these names become available to any new applicants.
“Once a trademark is deleted, others can claim rights to that name or a similar one, putting the original owner’s brand identity at serious risk,” warned Maria Nyangoma, the outgoing Commissioner for Trademarks and Geographical Indications at URSB.
The Bureau is urging all business owners, ranging from SACCOs and agricultural cooperatives to service providers, educators, and legal professionals, to act swiftly and ensure compliance.
“Don’t let your brand be vulnerable. Act now to protect your legacy,” said Gilbert Agaba, the outgoing Commissioner for Intellectual Property at URSB.
https://thecooperator.news/minister-barugahara-urges-un-to-support-ugandas-creative-industry/
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