The German food processing and packaging machinery manufacturers are supporting the sustainable industrialization of Africa through high-quality technologies in the consumer goods and packaging industry.

Particularly in the area of food processing, German machines are making a significant contribution to the economic development and help to improve the security of food supply.
The Africa Industrialization Day which has been celebrated annually by the United Nations on 20 November since 1989, draws attention to the crucial role of industrialization for sustainable growth and poverty reduction on the African continent. The development of efficient and safe production technologies, such as those provided by the German mechanical engineering industry, make a significant contribution to strengthening the local economy, help to train skilled workers and contribute to increasing food safety.

Industrialization as a key to reducing post-harvest losses
‘Zero Hunger’ is goal number within the UN sustainability strategy. The aim is to create a world without hunger by 2030. However, we are still a long way from achieving this. The global problem of hunger and food insecurity remains a major challenge. High post-harvest losses in some regions of the world are part of the problem.

According to a study by the Natural Resources Institute (NRI) at the University of Greenwich, an estimated 15 to 20 percent of the cereals and pulses produced in sub-Saharan Africa are currently lost due to a lack of processing and storage facilities. According to the Horticultural Research and Training Institute Tanzania, even as much as 30 to 80 percent of fruit and vegetables are lost. Food processing and packaging machinery from Germany can help here by reducing losses in food production and extending the shelf life of food. Key to this are hygienic production and adequate packaging. This not only promotes food security, but also creates new opportunities for local producers and entrepreneurs.

Industrialization is essential to increase production
According to the United Nations (UN), Africa's population is expected to grow to over 2.5 billion people by 2050, further increasing the pressure on food supplies. The industrialization of food production makes it possible to increase the efficiency and capacity of food supply, which is crucial to avoid shortages and meet the nutritional needs of the rapidly growing population.

With an export share of 86 percent and a global export volume of 9.9 billion euros, German manufacturers of food processing and packaging machines are particularly valuable partners for Africa. They support African companies in scaling up their production and remaining competitive, enabling them to offer high-quality and safe products in large quantities.

Skilled workers for Africa
Furthermore, German mechanical engineering companies offered training to local labor forces, thus creating sustainable knowledge transfer and employment opportunities. As part of the ‘Skilled workers for Africa’ initiative, the VDMA cooperated with partners and member companies at site to establish training centers in Botswana, Kenya and Nigeria in order to anchor technical knowledge and modern production methods locally. By courses and, in front of all, providing practical hands-on training to local workers, the German mechanical engineering industry has contributed to the development of a skilled labor force, which is crucial for the long-term success of industrialization projects.

Focus on sustainability and efficiency
In addition to an increase in production, German mechanical engineering companies also offer sustainable and efficient solutions. Modern machines are also designed to use less energy, water and other resources. Automated cleaning systems and sensors for monitoring hygiene conditions help to minimize the use of cleaning agents and disinfectants. Modern German packaging solutions also make it possible to reduce packaging waste and increase recycling rates.

Importance and opportunities for a German-African cooperation
Africa is an emerging continent with growing purchasing power and a young population. In view of Africa's growing political, economic and energy policy importance, a deeper economic partnership with Europe is indispensable. Also in view of the current geopolitical changes and the associated shift in markets, the VDMA has increased its engagement in Africa in recent years and supports the expansion of trade between its members and Africa. The development of African markets is part of the strategic orientation of the VDMA. The VDMA is therefore seeking the support of the German policy with a strategy that is tailored to the needs of both African partners and companies in the German mechanical and plant engineering sector.

The German mechanical engineering industry is an indispensable partner in the industrialization of Africa. Through innovative technologies and tailor-made solutions, it contributes to the economic development and to improving living conditions on the continent. The Africa Industrialization Day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of this cooperation and to further promote it.
www.vdma.org

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