The event, which runs from 26 to 28 November 2024, will cover critical sectors including energy, skills training, agriculture, the blue economy, marine and healthcare, showcasing the diverse opportunities for collaboration and growth.
The exclusive engagements with African ambassadors, high commissioners, UK politicians and key industry leaders are designed to help explore and create new business opportunities.
Trade between Scotland and Africa has already seen significant growth in recent years, with both areas benefiting from mutual exchanges in various sectors:
Energy: Scotland’s expertise in renewable energy aligns well with Africa’s vast potential for renewable energy development. In 2023, trade in renewable energy technologies between Scotland and Africa was valued at over £500 million (US$631 million).
Skills Training: Significant trade opportunities exist for organisations specialising in education, training and vocational skills.
Marine- & Blue Economy: Africa has an extensive coastline and rich marine resources, with many countries actively seeking expertise to develop their blue economies. Scotland’s commitment to sustainable marine practices offers valuable insights for this sector.
Agriculture: Scottish agricultural technology and expertise are highly sought after in Africa. The trade in agricultural machinery and technology has grown by 15% annually, reaching £200 million (US$252 million) in 2023.
Healthcare: Collaborative efforts in healthcare have led to significant advancements in medical technology and pharmaceuticals. The trade in healthcare products and services between Scotland and Africa was valued at £300 million (US$378 million) in 2023.
The business programme created for the Scotland London Africa Week will highlight the vast opportunities for Scottish businesses to trade with Africa, and underscores the importance of leaving a positive, lasting legacy through meaningful partnerships and economic impact.
London’s position as a global financial centre, coupled with its diverse entrepreneurial community, makes it an ideal location for helping businesses diversify their products and services, access new markets and increase their export opportunities. The Scotland London Africa Week will leverage London’s strategic advantages to facilitate meaningful connections and drive economic growth.
The delegation will meet with prominent UK politicians to discuss policies and initiatives that can enhance trade and investment between Scotland and Africa. These discussions will focus on creating a conducive environment for business growth and exploring opportunities for mutual benefit.
The briefings with the African high commissioners will provide a platform for dialogue on bilateral trade and investment opportunities. The delegation will also spend time with key industry leaders from businesses throughout Africa at an event being held at Marlborough House, which will explore avenues for collaboration. This includes leveraging the Commonwealth’s extensive network to promote trade, investment and educational exchanges between Scotland and African member states.
“Creating alliances within the African business ecosystem in London gives us a huge opportunity to boost trade and relations directly between Scotland and African countries with the Scottish Africa Business Association as the enabler," said Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer at SABA.
“I am delighted to once again partner with SABA at the Scotland London Africa Week,” commented Scott Cowan, Africa Legal CEO. “There are already many personal and professional connections between Africa and Scotland, in part driven by education, with many African alumni graduating from Scottish universities, and in part driven by SABA and the wealth of professional opportunities it is opening up. I look forward to seeing the new connections and avenues of collaboration that grow from this event.
For further details of the programme email info@africascot.com or contact admin@africa-legal.com