The Ghanaian lawyer had served for 16 years as Senior Legal Counsel at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), advising states and strategic partners, developing public policies, and strengthening intellectual property capacities.
A United Nations agency serving innovators and creators worldwide, WIPO ensures that their ideas safely reach the market and improve living conditions for everyone, everywhere.
WIPO’s Africa Division coordinates technical assistance and capacity-building activities in African countries. It guides the development and implementation of national intellectual property strategies to ensure that every country can access the global system in alignment with its development goals. These strategies are designed and implemented in coordination with the various sectors of the Organization.
A Rich Diplomatic and Legal Career
A Ghanaian lawyer and diplomat, Loretta Asiedu has extensive experience in international relations and in developing intellectual property skills. A respected figure on the international stage, she is an expert in public policy development and excels in international negotiations, the promotion of international law, and strategic planning.
Roots in Justice and Diplomacy
Graduating with honors in Law and Spanish from the University of Ghana, and holding a Master’s degree in International Relations from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, she began her career in 1998 at the Ghana Ministry of Justice as Assistant State Attorney, honing her legal analysis skills and her commitment to public interest.
In 2002, she joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana. From September 2006 to August 2009, she served as diplomat and foreign service officer at the Permanent Mission of Ghana to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva and Vienna, refining her expertise in multilateral negotiations and the art of diplomatic influence.
A Lasting Commitment to African Innovation
Joining WIPO in 2009 marked the beginning of her long-term dedication to innovation and the protection of ideas. For 16 years, she served as Senior Counsellor, advising states and strategic partners, shaping public policy, and building intellectual property capacity.
Now, as head of the Africa Division, Loretta Asiedu is determined to make intellectual property a driver of growth, innovation, and economic sovereignty for African nations.
