UNNGOF Welcomes Denmark’s New Strategy for Strengthened Engagement with African Countries.
The Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) is honored to have participated in a high-level discussion on Denmark’s new strategy for strengthened engagement with African countries. The event, hosted at the residence of H.E. Signe Winding Albjerg, Ambassador of Denmark to Uganda, brought together key partners and stakeholders to explore Denmark’s renewed commitment to promoting more equitable partnerships with Africa.
The strategy marks a shift in how Denmark will engage with African countries, emphasizing a broader and more inclusive approach. This new direction reflects Denmark’s recognition of Africa’s growing importance on the global stage, in terms of demographics, as a center for economic potential, innovation, and as a critical player in tackling global challenges such as climate change.
A Forward-Looking Vision for Africa
The underlying philosophy of Denmark’s strategy is clear: the future lies in deeper engagement with Africa. By 2050, one in four people in the world will live on the African continent, and one in three of those will be a young person between the ages of 15 and 25. Africa’s youth, coupled with rapid economic growth;11 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies are in Africa, makes it a region of immense potential.
The creation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is another game-changer, with the potential to become the world’s largest free trade bloc. The continent’s influence is also rising in global governance, accounting for over one-quarter of votes at the United Nations. These developments underscore why Denmark’s engagement with Africa is essential, for Africa’s future and for global progress.
Denmark also recognizes the complexity and diversity of the African continent, home to 54 countries, hundreds of languages, and over a billion people. While many countries are making strides in democracy, human rights, and economic growth, others continue to grapple with challenges such as poverty, conflict, and uneven development.
Why Engagement Matters
Denmark’s strategy reflects a nuanced understanding of Africa’s strategic significance in today’s geopolitical landscape. With major global players such as China, Russia, and India increasingly vying for influence in Africa, Denmark’s approach is to offer itself as a reliable and attractive partner. It’s not about forcing countries to choose sides but about building genuine partnerships that prioritize shared solutions and mutual growth.
For Denmark, this engagement is also about advancing its own interests in ways that align with Africa’s needs. Through investment, trade, and people-to-people exchanges, Denmark seeks to facilitate sustainable economic growth, promote security, and advance shared goals on climate action. As a global green frontrunner, Denmark is particularly well-positioned to collaborate with African nations on sustainable development initiatives.
Building on Strong Partnerships
For many years, Denmark’s engagement with Africa has primarily focused on development cooperation and humanitarian aid. While these efforts have been critical in addressing immediate needs, the new strategy acknowledges that Africa’s role in global politics must also be recognized. As Africa continues to rise, Denmark’s partnership must evolve to encompass a wider range of issues, from foreign and security policy to trade and investment.
Denmark’s strategy is rooted in Africa’s own vision for its future, as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This agenda aims to create an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa with strong influence in the international arena. In line with this, Denmark will continue to build on the foundations of its development cooperation, while expanding its focus to include more strategic partnerships in green energy, security, health, migration, and economic opportunities.
Looking Ahead: The Role of Civil Society
As we reflect on Denmark’s new strategy, UNNGOF is excited about the opportunities for civil society engagement. Civil society organizations, like those within UNNGOF’s network, play a critical role in promoting inclusion, human rights, and social accountability. Our on-the-ground insights and experience will be vital to ensuring that the people we serve are not left behind as Africa embarks on this new era of development.
We look forward to continued collaboration with the Danish Embassy and other partners as we work together to make this forward-looking strategy a success; and to build a future where both Africa and Denmark thrive in a more connected and inclusive global community. Together, we will create pathways to prosperity, inclusion, and shared growth.
