On a sunny June morning in Copenhagen, around 50 guests gathered at Haifagade 3 for a high-level prelude to the Nordic–Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Hosted by Afrika Consultancy, Access2Innovation, and EIFO, the event titled “Unlocking Investment Potential” spotlighted how Nordic–Southern African collaboration is shaping sustainable business growth.
The day began with networking over breakfast, followed by a warm welcome from the moderator Thomas Augustinus. Representatives from the organizing bodies introduced the day’s theme: forging tangible business connections across continents.
Succes stories
Keynote presentations brought real-world success stories to life. Zimbabwean entrepreneur and former Minister Supa Collins Mandiwanzira shared insights into Zimbabwe’s readiness for investment, backed by robust policy frameworks, an educated workforce, and advantageous geographic positioning. His vivid portrayal of Nyanga showcased the economic promise in sectors like tourism and agriculture.
Alun Hart, founder of Navaco Global, told the inspiring journey of establishing Zimbabwe’s largest avocado processing company. He explained how it had come from a bold idea to a thriving enterprise, anchored by a commitment to purpose-driven growth and inclusive hiring, with women making up 60% of the workforce.
Henrik Wollesen from Engsko A/S emphasized the power of local production and the necessity of skilled labour in Southern Africa. Ole Haubro from Aller Aqua highlighted how meaningful local partnerships, timely decision-making, and reinvesting in communities can accelerate aquaculture expansion on the continent.
Joining from Angola, Sérgio E. de L. Ferreira reflected on bridging Nordic standards with African potential. A former graduate student in Denmark, he now works to create inclusive ventures rooted in cross-continental collaboration.
Handshakes happen in real life
A dynamic panel discussion followed, moderated by Afro Community’s Tichaona Maphosa. The conversation explored business realities in Southern Africa, green sector prospects, legal frameworks, and the often-overlooked economic role of diaspora communities. From Tichaona Maphosa came an urge to travel to Africa and experience the continent and culture personally with the words “Handshakes happen in real life – not in Teams meetings.”
“Africa is not the future. It is the present,” Supa Collins Mandiwanzira added.
Tools from EIFO to de-risk operations
EIFO concluded the formal program with a presentation on the tools available to de-risk and catalyze Nordic investments in Africa. Only 2 percent of Denmark’s exports go to Africa, the biggest continent of the world. So there is room for improvement.
The morning wrapped up with a final networking over refreshments – sealing new connections and sparking ideas for future cooperation.
A huge thank you to Florence Charamba from Afrika Consultancy, to EIFO, the online speakers, and to all the wonderful guests who contributed to making it a successful event.
