A key component of the meeting was the report from the network – including the presentation of the Partnering in Business with Germany programme. The programme was not the main focus of the event. However, it was presented as a relevant example of how existing funding instruments can be integrated in a meaningful way. The close cooperation with the German bilateral chambers of commerce (AHKs) that specifically contribute to deepening business contacts or initiating new partnerships brings additional value to the programme.
Making cooperation concrete: how the Africa Business Network strengthens economic partnerships
The 21st Partner Meeting of the Africa Business Network (ABN) took place on 22 September 2025 at the Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft in Berlin and was more than just a networking event: it demonstrated how we can concretely design and systematically support the economic cooperation between Germany and Africa.
21st Partner Meeting of the Africa Business Network at the Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft in Berlin @BMWE/Nancy Portius
This structured approach is crucial: the challenges in many African markets – such as regulatory uncertainty, a lack of financing options, or information deficits – can only be overcome with well-coordinated measures. Programmes like Partnering in Business with Germany and the entire network play a key role. Heiko Schwiderowski, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa and Development Cooperation at the DIHK, emphasised: “For the German economy, the diversification of foreign markets is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Concrete exchange with potential partners plays a special role in this area. Partnering in Business with Germany places particular emphasis on this – particularly by intensively involving German bilateral chambers of commerce.”
Concrete practical examples demonstrate the effectiveness of this interaction: German companies, as well as participants and alumni of Partnering in Business in Germany, are advised by industry experts from the ABN and the Africa Business Guide – for example by Peter Riad from the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce in Egypt, who provides information on water management and trade fair participation such as the IFAT 2024. One of the benefits is the access to funding instruments such as Euler Hermes export credit insurance – this is an important topic, especially for African partner companies doing business with German SMEs.
@BMWE/Nancy Portius
The ABN’s structure provides a platform that brings together government foreign trade promotion, private sector engagement, and different government programmes. Over 50 partners – ranging from export initiatives and industry associations to international networks such as the Association of German Women Entrepreneurs – form the backbone of this network. The idea behind this is to create synergies, avoid duplication, and provide targeted support to companies.
Looking ahead, the network is committed to even closer cooperation: former Partnering in Business with Germany programme participants are to be more closely involved in upcoming events, such as the German-African Business Forum NRW in March 2026. Cross-sectoral approaches – such as with the German Health Initiative (GHA) – are also in preparation.
It became clear that African markets offer opportunities, but require commitment, expertise, and partnership structures. The Africa Business Network approach demonstrates how to create such a foundation – step by step, with concrete programmes and a growing network of partners.
@BMWE/Nancy Portiuss
@BMWE/Nancy Portius
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Making cooperation concrete: how the Africa Business Network strengthens economic partnerships