Seno Murugi Namwandi
Seno Namwandi is one of the pioneers of intellectual property (IP) in Namibia and has three years’ experience in the field. She currently serves as the youngest director on the Business Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) board, the national IP regulatory body. As a board member, she plays a critical role in ensuring that BIPA fulfills its fiduciary duty to the government and citizens. Her oversight includes the reviewing policy, making strategic decisions, and monitoring financial statuses. Seno also works at the International University of Management, where she serves as the director of innovation and IP. Her role involves supporting innovative research and establishing and managing the generated IP. Additionally, she drafts IP strategies for companies as a consultant. Seno Murugi Namwandi has a master’s degree in IP from Africa University in Zimbabwe and postgraduate certifications in IP. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University in South Africa. Her unique combination of qualifications enable her to understand a broad range of technical fields including science, commerce, and regulation. Upon completion of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Seno plans to contribute to governance and policy issues in Namibia, focusing on transparency, implementation, and accountability.