The 5th SIPAB Food and Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, held in Berlin in partnership with the diaspora community, Each One Teach One e.V. Berlin and Black Businesses Matter, brought together prominent members of the black business community to promote the sustainable growth of black-owned businesses. This year’s theme, “Building a Sustainable Business Network for Black-Owned Businesses”, attracted industry experts, entrepreneurs and community leaders who came together to network and share business knowledge and ideas.
The event kicked off with a panel discussion that focused on the strengths and challenges faced by Africans and Black business owners in the Diaspora, emphasising the need for collaboration, community networking and a unified approach to growth. The panelists included Dr Emmanuel Kwasi Mensah, an IT professional with a proven track record in finance and data science; Khadi Camara of Afika Verein; Valerie Viban, a policy advisor and expert in international cooperation and development; Eve Ebert, an entrepreneur and owner of Afropot Restaurant Berlin; and Maithy Moune, Managing Director of Each One Teach One e.V. Berlin, Germany.
A key discussion point was the strength of community support and the idea that networking is an ongoing process, not a one-off event. Panelists stressed the importance of expanding networks both within and beyond African diaspora communities. By supporting each other, they argued, black-owned brands could increase their market presence across borders and achieve global reach.
Panelists shared personal experiences and challenges faced by black entrepreneurs, including difficulties in reaching wider markets and accessing raw materials from Africa. Solutions revolved around collective support, resource sharing and collaboration to elevate and expand black-owned brands internationally.
Several delegates had the opportunity to pitch their businesses to potential partners, showcasing promising ventures with significant growth potential, sharing their journeys and inviting partnerships or investment to help their businesses grow. Among these companies was Bienvenue Angui, CEO of MOBIANG.
The SIPAB Berlin2024 conference was a valuable opportunity for African-based participants to reconnect with clients, expand their business networks and strengthen their reach across Europe. Delegates expressed their gratitude for the insights and networking opportunities that will help them refine their businesses to international standards.
According to SIPAB Project Manager Jimmy Acquah, the conference proved to be a crucial step in building a global, sustainable business network for black entrepreneurs, demonstrating the power of community. The event was a great success and the audience is looking forward to the 6th SIPAB Conference in February 2025. EOTO e.V. Berlin, Black Businesses Matter, Shout Africa Foundation, Isolve Africa and Ethana were among the partners who organised the event.
