« Go back How Italian companies can become "Champions" in Africa
The second edition of the Africa Champion Program is now in full swing. This strategic initiative, launched by SACE to align with the objectives of the Mattei Plan, is guiding hundreds of Italian companies along key growth paths in the African continent. Since its kickoff on February 25, the program has already achieved a positive initial track record, proving to be an indispensable tool for combining specialized training with concrete business opportunities.
The program, which is under the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and supported by the Mattei Plan Mission Structure, has already analyzed the geopolitical and economic outlooks of key markets such as Senegal, Angola, and Ethiopia during its early March sessions. The initiative features the active participation of Agenzia ICE, CDP, SIMEST, Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, ensuring a unified "National System" approach for all participating companies.
The program is now moving toward crucial milestones for commercial exchange. The calendar schedules an in-depth session on Morocco for March 18, followed by Ghana on March 31, concluding in April with Kenya and Tanzania.
The business opportunities identified revolve around supply chains where Italian excellence is most in demand by African partners:
- Agriculture: Mechanization and food processing.
- Energy: Energy transition and power grid infrastructure.
- Infrastructure: Logistics, as well as civil and industrial construction.
The most significant aspect for Italian firms is the transition from theory to practice. In addition to online training modules, the program has activated targeted business matching sessions. These meetings allow Italian producers to establish direct contact with selected African counterparts, facilitating not only the export of goods and services but also the creation of long-term industrial partnerships.
For foreign investors and operators, the Africa Champion Program acts as a "seal of quality": the Italian companies involved in the process are backed by the country's leading financial institutions, ensuring reliability, robust risk analysis, and innovative solutions for internationalization.
The program goes beyond geographical analysis. In the second half of April, the focus will shift to global themes, such as the role of multilateral banks in African development and new industrial policies related to critical raw materials and digital infrastructure. Through this platform, Italy is consolidating its role as a key reference point for the African private sector, promoting cooperation based on technology transfer and sustainable growth.