Kinshasa, the energetic megacity and capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), buzzes with human energy and ingenuity. Renowned for its animated markets, lively music scene, and rich cultural heritage, Kinshasa is a Central Africa hub where creativity and innovation thrive in the face of many challenges.
Inventor Tommy Panzu Mbumba is just one of the Kinshasa strivers working each day to improve their lives and those around them.
“While the DRC is a structurally underdeveloped country in appearance, it is not in brains and even less in passion,” says Mbumba.
From his home workshop in the district of Lemba off the road to Kinshasa’s airport, Mbumba is seeking to make airplane crashes less likely.
His invention, the Safemaker, is a system designed to correct pilot error and enhance aviation safety, he says.
But taking an idea to market is no easy feat. Tommy is now working to achieve his ambition with the support of WIPO’s Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC). With the guidance and resources provided by the TISC in the DRC, Tommy is navigating the complex process of preparing an international patent application for the Safemaker. This will enable him to seek protection for his intellectual property and bring his invention to the global market.
Tommy’s story is one of many that highlight the role of intellectual property in empowering entrepreneurs and fostering innovation. Through programs such as the TISCs, WIPO continues to support inventors worldwide, helping them transform their ideas into impactful solutions that benefit society at large.
This story is part of a series of ‘IP for Impact Stories’ produced by WIPO and first appeared on their website: https://www.wipo.int/pressroom/en/stories/
