Francis Kamuzora

Established in 2017, BOWMANS TANZANIA LIMITED is a prominent full-service law firm based in Dar es Salaam. As part of the pan-African Bowmans network, the firm leverages a deep understanding of local legal landscapes and a broad continental reach to provide comprehensive services. Among its diverse practice areas, the firm has developed a robust IP law practice, offering strategic counsel and litigation services to both domestic and international clients. The team’s end-to-end services include:

• Trademark Registration & Prosecution: Assisting clients with the registration of trademarks, ensuring compliance with Tanzanian laws and international treaties.

• Patent Advisory: Offering guidance on patentability, filing procedures and enforcement strategies.

• Litigation & Enforcement: Representing clients in disputes involving infringement, passing-off and opposition proceedings.

• Portfolio Management: Managing IP portfolios to maximise value and ensure protection across jurisdictions.

Furthermore, Tanzania's membership in the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and signatory status to the Banjul Protocol enable the firm to offer clients cost-effective international filings, extending protection across multiple jurisdictions. As part of the broader Bowmans network, BOWMANS TANZANIA is well positioned to handle cross-border IP matters. Moreover, the firm's alliances with Aman & Partners LLP in Ethiopia and Udo Udoma & Belo-Osagie in Nigeria further enhance its capacity to serve clients operating across Africa.

Francis Kamuzora is a pivotal figure in the firm’s IP practice – a Consultant based in the Dar es Salaam office. With more than a decade’s experience, Mr Kamuzora specialises in both contentious and non-contentious IP matters, particularly trademarks and patents. His expertise extends to tax, employment and general commercial law, providing clients with a holistic legal perspective. His notable engagements include representing Serengeti Breweries Limited in a passing-off action, representing Tiffany & Co. in a trademark dispute over the Tiffany trademarks, representing Coachella Music Festival LLC in opposition proceedings in connection with the Coachella trademark, advising Google LLC in a copyright matter in Tanzania, advising JC Decaux SA in a trademark dispute with a competitor in Tanzania, as well as:

• Representation of Godrej Consumer Products Limited: Successfully acted in multiple proceedings before the High Court and Court of Appeal of Tanzania, including passing-off actions and trademark restoration cases involving the “HIT” brand.

• Advocacy for Shinyanga Emporium (1978) Ltd: Led trademark infringement litigation concerning the “NEELAM” mark, demonstrating adept handling of complex IP disputes.

• Counsel for Sineria Holland B.V.: Managed proceedings for the cancellation of registered trademarks, showcasing proficiency in navigating regulatory frameworks.