BIPA Appoints Ainna Vilengi Kaundu as Chief Executive Officer
By TUW
The Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) has confirmed the appointment of Ms. Ainna Vilengi Kaundu as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter in the institution’s leadership as of 1 January 2026.
The announcement was made by the BIPA Board of Directors following a competitive and comprehensive recruitment process. Ms. Kaundu has been appointed for a fixed term of five years.
Ms. Kaundu brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as Executive of Intellectual Property Services at BIPA. In that capacity, she played a key role in shaping Namibia’s intellectual property framework, contributing to major legislative instruments such as the Industrial Property Act, the Business and Intellectual Property Authority Act, the draft Copyright Bill, and the Consumer Protection Policy.
Beyond her national contributions, Ms. Kaundu has also represented Namibia at regional and international levels. She has served as Chairperson of a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) conference and currently holds the position of Vice Chairperson of the Administrative Council of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO).
With over 18 years of leadership and management experience, Ms. Kaundu has held directorships across both public and private sector boards. She holds a Master of Laws in International Trade and Investment Law from the University of Pretoria and an LLB degree from the University of Namibia. She is also an admitted legal practitioner.
Commenting on the appointment, Chairperson of the BIPA Board, Immanuel Tino !Hanabeb, expressed confidence in Ms. Kaundu’s leadership. He said her performance during her tenure as Acting Chief Executive Officer demonstrated strong professionalism, sound judgment, and resilience, particularly during a period of institutional transition.
He added that her leadership ensured operational continuity and organisational stability, positioning BIPA to advance its mandate of supporting sustainable economic growth.
The Board has extended its best wishes to Ms. Kaundu and indicated its commitment to working closely with her as BIPA continues to promote ease of doing business, protect intellectual property rights, and support the growth of Namibia’s creative and enterprise sectors.
