On 8 June, we brought together the Finnish-African Network to discuss the future of Finland–Africa business collaboration and the potential establishment of a Finnish–African Business Council.

The discussion focused on how to best support Finnish companies in African markets through practical cooperation, stronger networks, and improved access to market insights. 

We aspire to develop collaboration between Finland and African countries in the most valuable and impactful way.

We had the honour to hear about the importance of Africa in a changing world from, Mr. Jarno Syrjala, Under-Secretary of State for International Trade, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. We also learned about the support Finnish companies can get from Ms. Päivi Pohjanheimo, Director of International Affairs & Trade, Finland Chamber of Commerce, Country Director Secretary General, ICC Finland and Mr. Patrik Bredbacka, Head of EU & Finnish Partnerships at Finnfund.

A special thank you to all speakers and participants for their contributions, and to Anu Saxen for her role in advancing this initiative.