Technology giant Microsoft plans to tackle intellectual property (IP) protection in Africa.

In a statement, Microsoft has announced its 4Afrika IP Hub website, which aims to create an intellectual property protection culture in Africa.

The website will be piloted in Kenya for two years, after which it will be handed over to the local government with similar projects being rolled out to other African countries.

The IP Hub also plans offering developers and independent software vendors the skills and tools necessary to develop, protect and monetise their innovations.

“Most African innovators function on the premise that the idea is theirs until someone else takes it to market, or duplicates it. As Africa’s innovation continues to flourish, the future remains uncertain if these promising ideas are not supported and protected properly,” said Louis Otieno, director for legal and corporate affairs, Microsoft 4Afrika.

In Kenya only 383 resident patent applications were filed through the Patent Cooperation Treaty procedure or with the national patent office between 2009 and 2012, according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).

John Waibochi, chief executive officer of Kenya’s Virtual City Group, a local innovator said, “IP protection has played an important role in the foundation and growth of our business. From when it was just in the idea stage, we registered it through our IP lawyers with the relevant authorities. This has allowed us to grow to where we are today, and ensures that our technology remains in the hands of Africans, for Africa and the world.”

Microsoft's 4Afrika initiative was launched last year to bring to market and help African startups monetise their innovations and ideas, and allow them to make the right connection with investors.