Germany seeks energy and trading partners in Africa
Germany is keen to boost its economy. On his third trip to Africa, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is visiting Nigeria and South Africa to promote
Germany is keen to boost its economy. On his third trip to Africa, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is visiting Nigeria and South Africa to promote greater cooperation. In a tent in the Nigerian metropolis of Lagos, two worlds collide: Three fashionable influencers sit on cushioned stools across from Germany's 63-year-old Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. For half an hour, the senior politician meets Africa's young creative scene. These young people are among the stars of Nigeria's creative industry — in a country with a population of around 240 million and a median age of just under 18. Wadephul wants to understand what moves the younger generation. What issues are on their minds? How do they view Germany? And what do they expect from a collaboration? After a brief hesitation, they reply: Germany and Europe listen to their music, view their art, and want to collaborate with them. But anyone who wants to travel to the German capital for Fashion Week or the Berlinale film festival can hardly get a visa, says a young man in the audience. A conversation gets underway; everyone enjoys the exchange and subsequently uploads upbeat videos to social media platforms — to the influencers' channels as well as those of the Federal Foreign Office. This is how German diplomacy seeks a direct line of communication with Africa's younger generation.
Nigeria as a Valuable Energy Supplier There is good reason for the Foreign Minister to be promoting Germany in Nigeria. "The country is an economic powerhouse and, as Africa's largest domestic market, also a key destination for German exports," he says. Nigeria is sub-Saharan Africa's second-largest economy and already imports machinery, chemicals, and food products "Made in Germany." However, Nigeria's raw materials account for the largest share of the trade balance. They have become even more important since the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. "In June, 25% of jet fuel shipments to Europe came from Nigeria. But we can do significantly more," emphasizes Wadephul. Vital infrastructure support Wadephul is accompanied by a business delegation on his third trip to Africa. The group includes major corporations like Siemens as well as small and medium-sized enterprises. One of these is VIDA, a Munich-based AI company that is finalizing a multi-million-euro contract with the Nigerian government. The focus is on AI-driven infrastructure planning. "Our solutions help identify and evaluate new locations. AI allows us to determine much more quickly the economic potential of a site, as well as the local conditions regarding security, climate trends, and other key factors," explains VIDA founder Tobias Engelmeier. His company is already implementing projects in 20 African countries.
The BriefWire