Access2innovation has submitted a consultation response to the new development policy strategy. The response highlights the growing African economies and populations and the increasing recognition by Denmark and the EU of the need to focus more on Africa to counter Chinese and Russian investments in the region.
In Access2innovation’s recommendations for Denmark’s new development strategy, we emphasize that Danish business strengths are relevant for African markets, but success requires market understanding, knowledge of value chains, and operational support for companies.
This is particularly important for small and medium-sized Danish companies that can develop innovative solutions adapted to African needs.
The ICED espresso-succes from Farm Mountain Coffee, Danish Coffee APS, Liplid AB, and JAHL Production Limited is an example of at Danish based company, that now is creating jobs in Uganda by refining one of their raw materials locally, instead of exporting it for processing and value addition elsewhere.
Access2innovation appeals to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prioritize institutional support for building equal partnerships between Danish and African companies, focusing on sectors such as food systems, water and sanitation, renewable energy, climate, and green transition.
Our response recommends five specific areas for increased focus:
- Operational support for Danish companies entering African markets
- Capacity building for both Danish and African businesses
- Interest building among Danish companies regarding African opportunities
- Local financing mechanisms for African actors wanting to invest in Danish solutions
- A poverty-oriented approach targeting the business “middle layer” that can integrate with vulnerable groups.
Click here to read our full recommendations for Denmark’s new development strategy.