Germany unveils new Africa policy guidelines

The German government has approved a fresh set of Africa policy guidelines aimed at reshaping its engagement with the continent. However, reactions have been mixed, with industry leaders and analysts questioning the effectiveness and timeliness of the new strategy.

A changing perspective on Africa

For years, Africa played a peripheral role in German foreign policy. This is changing as the continent emerges as a major global player, thanks to its growing economic potential, resource wealth and youthful, tech-savvy population. The new 30-page strategy document, approved by the federal cabinet on Wednesday, highlights Africa’s increasing importance in a multipolar world, emphasizing Germany’s interest in a “prosperous and secure African continent.”

Notably, the updated guidelines prioritize climate diplomacy, youth engagement and addressing Germany’s colonial legacy — areas largely overlooked in the previous 2019 strategy. However, the government acknowledges stiff competition from global powers such as China and Russia, which have strengthened their influence across Africa.

“We must offer equitable and partnership-based alternatives,” a Foreign Ministry spokesperson remarked, stressing Germany’s commitment to fostering mutual growth.

Ambitious goals, persistent challenges

The policy outlines ambitious goals, including supporting Africa in tackling the “triple crisis” of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. Germany also pledges to assist with the continent’s energy transition, promote sustainable agricultural systems and boost investment in local value chains.

Yet, skepticism abounds. Critics point to Germany’s mixed track record, including a slow response to Africa’s needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the continent received a fraction of the global vaccine supply. Similarly, the export of millions of tons of European e-waste to Africa continues to undermine environmental efforts.

Migration remains a central focus. Germany aims to create legal migration pathways, combat human trafficking and curb irregular migration. At the same time, the strategy seeks to establish migration agreements to deter asylum-seekers heading toward Europe.

Lack of concrete actions

The Africa Association of German Business (Afrika-Verein) has expressed disappointment with the new guidelines. The organization, representing German companies engaged in Africa, criticized the policy for lacking concrete actions and coherent priorities across government ministries.

Christoph Kannengießer, the association’s CEO, argued that the guidelines fall short in addressing critical needs like private sector investments, trade and local value creation. “Germany must act decisively to compete with global players like China, India and Turkey,” he said.

The Afrika-Verein called for reforms in export credit and investment guarantees, as well as the introduction of innovative financing tools tailored to Africa’s perceived high-risk markets. Without these measures, Germany risks missing key opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Focus on Africa’s youth

Germany’s renewed focus on Africa’s youth acknowledges their central role in shaping the continent’s future. The strategy emphasizes fostering civil society and ensuring youth, women and marginalized groups are included in political decision-making.

The guidelines were developed under the leadership of the Foreign Ministry, with input from development, economic, agricultural and defence ministries, as well as civil society and academia. However, it remains unclear whether African diaspora organizations in Germany were involved in the process.

A step forward?

As Germany seeks to recalibrate its Africa strategy, the question remains whether this policy can deliver tangible benefits for both sides. For now, stakeholders await further details on how these aspirations will translate into action.

Felix Dappah