Africa’s importance on the international scene has never been greater.  Home to 11 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies, the continent’s impressive economic projections are supported by estimates that 24% of the global working-age population will be Africans by 2050. By mid-century, one in every three of the world’s youth will be African.

When it comes to accelerating the green transition, the African continent is equally essential. It is estimated that the continent holds more than 39% of the world’s renewable energy resources and is home to approximately 30% of the world’s global mineral reserves. On the flip side, African countries are among those hardest hit by climate change. In 2050, one in every two climate-displaced persons is expected to be from Africa, demonstrating the continent’s high vulnerability to the impacts of climate change.

Given these developments, Denmark now strengthening its African partnerships focussing on trade cooperation, climate adaptation, green growth, technology advancement, innovation and migration. As part of a new strategy for equal and inclusive engagements with African countries, Denmark’s green focus will especially revolve around climate adaptation, with a particular focus on water, forests and biodiversity to promote a just, green transition.

New efforts will increasingly seek opportunities for more green energy supplies, supporting both climate-positive growth and job creation in the process. Examples include partnerships focusing on tangible implementation of national climate plans, as well as initiatives such as the Danish-led Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance (BOGA) for a global phase-out of oil and gas, and the African-led Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA).

In this vein, the strategy highlights the potential of establishing green corridors along shipping routes around the African continent besides delivering innovative financing in new critical infrastructure and green technology rollout to meet the African partners’ future demand.

Read the press message: The Danish Government strengthens Danish engagement with Africa countries

Increased efforts for climate adaptation and support for a just, green transition in Africa

With the new strategy, more than DKK 1 billion will be allocated to new water initiatives in Africa over the coming years, including DKK 425 million in 2025. The efforts aim to increase resilience to climate change. Focusing on water management, where Danish authorities and companies have much to offer, the funds will target projects such as improving drinking water supply and climate adaptation in South Africa, as well as increasing access to clean drinking water in low-income areas in Ghana.

African countries have a great need for well-functioning cold chains to increase food safety, and this is an area where Denmark and Danish businesses have significant expertise. As part of an increased focus on climate adaptation, in 2025 the Danish Government will explore how Denmark can contribute to strengthening the establishment of cold chains for agricultural products in Africa.

See the list of initiatives in the fact sheet and read the full text of the strategy.