Chairperson, thank you for ending that discussion.
Chairperson, not many of our people are aware of intellectual property or what it means, but at the World Economic Forum held recently it was established that Africa, as one of the poorest continents, may boost its economy by billions of dollars through export if the agricultural industry incorporates intellectual property as part of its business plans.
South Africa is a country that is rich in so many unique talents and, certainly, we should tap into them to assist in the fight against poverty. [Interjections.] I'm talking; you keep quiet. This will be catered for in terms of the intellectual property legislation, but what we need to look at is how effective have we been in identifying intellectual property in rural South Africa.
If it is true that intellectual property can be this great poverty alleviator, should we not then explore every avenue, especially in our rural areas, in this regard? It is evident that both the public and private sectors have been key role- players. And it is important that we ensure that women and the physically challenged may also be represented in this sector.
The establishment of the National Intellectual Property Management Office, Nipmo, is beneficial to the management and the recording of intellectual property. We, however, have to give the assurance that it remains liable and answerable to a greater authority so that we may secure its effective and efficient function.
It is a very special month in which we celebrate all our women. It is important that we take the initiative to take forward our fight and ensure that women are given equal opportunities, to be granted the assistance to establish themselves in all sectors and forums.
The value and contributions of all women need to be realised. When we look at our academics and researchers, women have made an astounding contribution and I believe we may make such a contribution in this faculty too. The MF supports the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development Bill.