Africa Business Forum 2025

Africa Business
Forum 2025:
Unlocking the Potential for
a Digital and Green Future

27 May 2025
Tallinn, Estonia

at Radisson Collection Hotel

Thank you for attending the Africa Business Forum 2025 in Tallinn, Estonia on 27 May!

Under the theme Unlocking the Potential for a Digital and Green Future, the forum featured panels and breakout sessions on digital governance, green technologies, and innovative partnerships. We explored cutting-edge advancements with a particular focus on Estonia’s renowned expertise in digital solutions and their potential to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation. At the same time, we highlighted African nations’ immense opportunities in renewable energy, paving the way for meaningful collaborations that drive sustainable economic growth.

Relive the highlights of the Africa Business Forum 2025 by exploring our photo gallery HERE and aftermovie HERE:

You can watch the Africa Business Forum 2025 panel discussions here:

Ministerial Panel on Digital Innovation

Digital innovation is reshaping economies, driving inclusion, and unlocking new opportunities. In this high-level discussion, government leaders from South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, and Estonia share firsthand insights into their digital transformation journeys.

Beyond Buzzwords: Digital Governance Accelerating Doing Business in Africa

Forget the jargon – this panel dives into real-world solutions powered by e-governance. Discover how the digital transformation is reshaping Africa´s businesses, creating efficiency, transparency, and a secure business environment that attracts investors.

Powering Africa’s Green Future: Estonian Innovations for Sustainable Growth

Data is the secret ingredient for a greener tomorrow! Join us as we explore how environmental insights are revolutionizing energy grids and agriculture. From optimizing unused grid capacity to empowering farmers with smarter decisions, innovations are paving the way for a resilient and sustainable future.

Unlocking New Partnerships: How NGOs, Foundations and International Organisations support European-African business diplomacy

Collaboration is the key to transformative change. This panel uncovers how mutual learning, digital innovation, and shared development goals drive meaningful impact. The recipe is sharing success stories, diverse funding arrangements, and expanding the ecosystem to engage the right partners.

Africa Business Forum 2025 is the third time key players gather in Tallinn to foster and strengthen business ties between Estonia and African countries. This year’s forum will focus on the impact of digitalization on doing business in Africa, with a special emphasis on green and smart solutions, and innovative new partnerships.

ABF 2025 is an excellent platform for sharing knowledge, nurturing partnerships, and showcasing advancements. It is also an opportunity to discuss trade strategy, build networks, and learn about trends and developments in Africa.

Our aim is to enhance cooperation between Estonian and African businesses and organizations, creating new business opportunities and promoting innovation and sustainable economic growth in Africa.

THE FORUM IN A NUTSHELL

Engaging panels on topical issues: digital governance, green future and new partnerships
Practical breakout sessions and workshops
Business EXPO area featuring African embassies
A dedicated business networking area

WHO WILL BE THERE?

Estonian companies interested in African markets
African startups and companies looking for business partnerships
Policymakers and government representatives from Estonia and the African nations
Experts and thought leaders
International financial institutions
Business support organisations
Investors, incubators and accelerators focusing on digital innovation and green technologies

EXPO AREA

We are excited to welcome you to the Expo area at Africa Business Forum 2025—a dynamic space designed for meaningful exchanges, insights, and networking. Here, you will have the opportunity to engage with representatives from six embassies—Ethiopia, Ghana, Morocco, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia—as well as experts from the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV).

The Expo area highlights the diverse business landscape across participating nations, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore key opportunities, industry initiatives, and potential collaborations. This year, we’re putting the spotlight on CleanTech/GreenTech, EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, and ICT.

Whether you are seeking market insights and partnerships or just curious to explore different perspectives, we invite you to visit the Expo area!

The Expo runs concurrently with the event, from 9:00 to 17:30.

The event is organised by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is financed by the European Union Programme „NextGenerationEU”.

Key topics

DIGITAL GOVERNANCE ACCELERATING DOING BUSINESS IN AFRICA

Many African countries are experiencing rapid economic growth due to digitalisation. The expansion of internet and mobile connectivity across African nations lays out a fertile ground for the development of digital solutions in business models. Doing business can be accelerated with the use of efficient e-solutions.

The banking and telecom industries in Africa are mature, but are still growing at a strong pace. Africa’s banking market volume is over 200 billion USD and the telecoms account for well over 64 billion USD. Approaching one billion digital signatures for a country of 1.3 million people, reaffirms Estonia’s leadership in digital solutions. With 98% of bank payments conducted online or in apps, banks are benefitting immensely from smart and cost-saving e-solutions.

We will explore how Estonian digital solutions can address the needs of Africa’s businesses and how African countries already leverage Estonian ICT and e-governance solutions to improve public service delivery, better the business environment, and foster a digitally inclusive economy.

POWERING AFRICA’S GREEN FUTURE

Africa holds 60% of the world’s prime solar power resources and has more sunlight than any other continent. It holds 65% of the world’s untapped arable land and is the nest for much of the world’s minerals. Africa holds great potential for the development and implementation of green and clean technologies, contributing to sustainable economic growth and the achievement of climate goals.

As African nations invest heavily in renewable energy and sustainable technologies, the demand for innovative green technologies is increasing. Estonia’s leadership in the management and sharing of environmental data can support the development and deployment of green technologies.

This panel takes a look at the opportunities in Africa’s green economy, focusing on how data can support sustainable solutions in renewable energy, waste management and circular economy, sustainable agriculture and food security, and climate resilience.

UNLOCKING NEW PARTNERSHIPS

There are many organisations bringing the business communities in Europe and Africa closer to each other, building bridges between different business cultures and creating opportunities in the two continents. With the international business markets sensing challenging times ahead, it is a good time to strengthen Africa-Europe business relations.

With a combined 40 million km² and a population of over 2 billion people, there is plenty of room for various players to participate in business development between Europe and Africa. When speaking about trade promotion, we normally think of chambers of commerce and investors, but many NGOs, foundations, and international organisations also promote the expansion of business relations. They are often the only actors working at the grassroots level and supporting the most vulnerable.

In this panel, the focus is on how NGOs, foundations and international organisations support European-African business diplomacy by contributing to the strengthening of trade relations. We will also discuss how businesses operating in Africa can benefit from their programmes.

Programme

08:30 – 09:30

Registration and coffee

09:30

Opening remarks

Daniel Erik Schaer – Ambassador to Kenya and South Africa

09:35

Welcome by Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Margus Tsahkna

09:40 – 10:20

Ministerial Panel

Mr Margus Tsahkna – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Estonia

Amal El Fallah Seghrouclmi – Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Morocco

Leon Schreiber – Minister of Home Affairs, South Africa

Dr Belio Kipsang – Principal Secretary, Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Kenya

Moderator Mariin Ratnik – Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia

10:20 – 11:15

PANEL DISCUSSION

Beyond Buzzwords: Digital Governance Accelerating Doing Business in Africa
Explore the synergy between Estonian digital expertise and African business needs, as we uncover how ICT and e-governance technology are transforming public service delivery, enhancing the business environment, and driving digitally inclusive economic growth across the continent.

Isaac John Ochieng – Director General, eCitizen Services

Caline Djiowa – Co-Founder, Saphir Capital

Helena Lepp – Director of Service Transformation, Digital Nation

Dr Ralph Oyini Mbouna – Director of Digital Transformation and Services, Smart Africa

Moderator Anett Numa – Chief of International Affairs, Neverhack Group

11:15 – 11:45

Coffee Break

11:45 – 12:40

PANEL DISCUSSION

Powering Africa’s Green Future: Estonian Innovations for Sustainable
Growth
A deep dive into Africa’s green economy, this panel uncovers how data can fuel sustainability across energy, agriculture, waste management, and climate response strategies.

Mika Jantunen – Regional Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, Finnish Water Forum

Phyian Karinge – Senior Product Manager, Agribora

Georg Rute – CEO, Gridraven

Morwesi Ramonyai Thonga – CEO, 4DGrid; World Bank Senior Advisor

Moderator Anett Numa – Chief of International Affairs, Neverhack Group

12:45 – 14:00

Lunch

14:00 – 14:05

Latitude59 – From Estonian Startup Ecosystem to Building the Global Village

Liisi Org – CEO, Latitude59

14:05 – 15:00

PANEL DISCUSSION

Unlocking New Partnerships: How NGOs, Foundations and International Organisations support European-African business diplomacy
This panel examines the role of NGOs, foundations, and international organizations in strengthening European-African trade relations and how businesses in Africa can leverage their programs for growth.

Peter Mariën – Team Leader for Digital Governance, European Commission, Directorate General for International Partnerships

Liisi Org – CEO, Latitude59

Holy Ranaivozanany – Deputy Executive Director, Africa-Europe Foundation

Katrin Winter – Regional Head, Africa, ESTDEV

Moderator Anett Numa – Chief of International Affairs, Neverhack Group

15:00 – 15:30

Coffee break

15:30 – 17:00

Breakout sessions

1. UN/EU procurements
This breakout session provides a practical guide to unlocking business opportunities in Africa through UN and EU tendering, featuring real success stories, key procurement insights, and strategies for crafting winning proposals to collaborate with global organizations.

Peter Mariën – Team Leader for Digital Governance, European Commission, Directorate General for International Partnerships

Mouna Zine – Senior Procurement Analyst, UNOPS Procurement Group

Siim Esko – International Project Development Lead, Positium

Laur Mägi – Business Area Lead, Helmes

Moderator Jana Silaškova – Head of Internationalization, Estonian ICT Association (ITL)

2. Digital (GovTech) product development
This breakout session explores the realities of digital product demand in African markets, offering insights on packaging solutions, success stories from Estonian companies, and an interactive advisory session to refine strategies for navigating these dynamic opportunities.

Allan Bernard – GovTech Lead Architect, Nortal

Paul Kariuki – Director ICT, BRS

Dr Ralph Oyini Mbouna – Director of Digital Transformation and Services, Smart Africa

Taavi Toomere – Head of Data Exchange Products, Cybernetica

Moderator Chidi Afulezi – Managing Principal, redKola Digital

3. Curated networking session
Designed for meaningful engagement, this curated networking session brings people together across relevant themes, encouraging insightful conversations and valuable connections in a collaborative, many-to-many format.

Led by Joel Karubiu – Export Adviser in Kenya, Estonian Business and Innovation Agency

17:00 – 18:00

Networking and Social programme

Speakers

Margus Tsahkna

Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs

Margus Tsahkna assumed office as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia on 17 April 2023. Having started his career in local politics in 2002, Margus Tsahkna was a member of the 11th, 12th (2007-2015) and 13th (2017-2019) Riigikogu and has held several ministerial positions: Minister of Defence (2016-2017) and Minister of Social Protection (2015-2016).

Tsahkna was head of the Pro Patria political party from 2015 to 2017, after which he left politics to work in the private sector in the field of war and disaster medicine. During his experience in the private sector, Tsahkna created the new political party E200, which successfully entered the Riigikogu after the general elections in March 2023. Margus Tsahkna has studied theology and religious studies, and international law.

Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni

Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform
Kingdom of Morocco

Mrs. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni is the Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform – Kingdom of Morocco, and former Executive President-Current Honorary President of the International Center of Artificial Intelligence of Morocco, Ai movement within the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Rabat – Morocco.

She is also an exceptional class professor at the Sorbonne University, at the Faculty of Sciences and Engineering in Paris. She is the Principal Investigator of the Thales Endowed Chair of Excellence at Sorbonne University-Abu Dhabi/Center of Artificial Intelligence (Hybrid AI for cognitive radars). Mrs Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni holds a Ph.D in computer science from the University Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris 6) and a Habilitation to advise Research (HDR) from Sorbonne Paris Nord University in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Worldwide expert in Distributed Artificial Intelligence and Multi-Agent Systems, she was elected General Chair of the Best International Conference in the field (AAMAS 2020, Auckland – New Zealand) among others and Program Chair of AAMAS 2025. Prof. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni is passionate about ethical issues of emerging technologies, social issues related to ethics, gender, inclusion, and social justice. She is a member of the World Commision on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology of UNESCO (COMEST) and member of Expert Group for UNESCO project on AI and the Futures of Learning.

Dr Leon Schreiber

Minister of Home Affairs
The Republic of South Africa

Dr Leon Schreiber is the Minister of Home Affairs for the Republic of South Africa and a Member of Parliament for the Democratic Alliance. Prior to his appointment as Minister in June 2024, he served as Shadow Minister of Public Service and Administration, as a Whip in the National Assembly, and as Strategy and Communications Advisor to the Leader of the Opposition.

Before he was first elected to Parliament in May 2019, Minister Schreiber worked as a Senior Research Specialist at Princeton University’s Innovations for Successful Societies programme, where he conducted research in numerous African and Asian countries on how to build and reform government institutions. He earned his Doctorate in Political Science, magna cum laude, from the Free University of Berlin in 2015, after completing Master’s, Honour’s and Bachelor’s degrees in International Studies and Political Science at Stellenbosch University. He matriculated from Paul Roos Gymnasium and grew up in the Namaqualand region of the Northern Cape.

Dr Schreiber has an extensive publication record, including his 2018 book Coalition Country, as well as policy papers, journal publications and press articles. He has been recognized with multiple awards, including being named one of the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans in 2017. He was the 2015 runner-up in the St Gallen Wings of Excellence Award for young leaders, and received a European Commission Scholarship Award for his doctoral studies.

Dr Belio R. Kipsang, CBS

Principal Secretary
Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Kenya

Dr. Belio R. Kipsang is the Principal Secretary, State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services in the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. His extensive leadership spans multiple government roles, including serving as Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Principal Secretary for Regional and Northern Corridor Development, and Principal Secretary for Basic Education and Early Learning. Dr. Kipsang also served as a Council Member at Mt. Kenya University and Cooperative University College and the Kenya National Examinations Council where he also Chairs Finance, Planning and Development.

Dr. Kipsang holds a PhD in Educational Administration and Planning from The Catholic University of Eastern Africa and degrees in Economics and Business Education from the University of Nairobi. He has participated in prestigious training programs at institutions like Harvard University, the London School of Economics, and the State University of New York.

Beyond his government roles, Dr. Kipsang has contributed to international organizations, serving on the Finance Alliance for Sustainable Trade and the International Coffee Organization. His expertise extends to finance, economic crime prevention, and agricultural value chains. His contributions have earned him multiple honours, including the First Class Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (C.B.S.). His influence in education, trade, and governance continues to shape Kenya’s development.

Mariin Ratnik

Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia

Mariin Ratnik serves as the Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs since September 2022. She has worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2000 and has been Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Andorra, Algeria and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe in Vienna. Between 2017 and 2019, she served as the Prime Minister’s foreign relations adviser at the Government Office.

Mariin Ratnik has graduated from the University of Tartu with a degree in economics and she has studied international relations at the Estonian School of Diplomacy and the Humboldt University in Berlin.

Daniel Erik Schaer

Ambassador to Kenya and South Africa

Daniel Schaer has over 20 years of diplomatic experience. He has a passion for Africa having lived in Rwanda for 4 years and having visited over 35 African countries. In 2023, Daniel presented his letter of credential to President William Ruto in Kenya and President Cyril Ramaphosa in South Africa to become Estonia’s first Ambassador in both countries. As Ambassador for Africa, Daniel is looking to build stronger economic and diplomatic relations between the continent and Estonia.

In 2022, Daniel led the innovative Estonian pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai. He has previously been Estonian Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. As Ambassador at large – Special Diplomatic Representative of the President of Estonia for Africa, Daniel helped run Estonia’s successful UN Security Council Campaign.

Daniel is a graduate of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, where he studied International Relations. He has a Master’s degree in European Studies from the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium.

Beyond Buzzwords

Isaac John Ochieng

Director General
eCitizen Services

Ambassador Isaac John Ochieng is a Kenyan public servant and seasoned diplomat currently serving as the Director General of eCitizen Services – Kenya. In this role, he leads the country’s flagship digital platform, which centralizes and streamlines the delivery of government services to both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals. Through his leadership, eCitizen has significantly enhanced transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, offering a unified digital portal that transforms how the public interacts with government institutions.

Ambassador Ochieng brings a wealth of experience in public sector innovation and e-governance. His strategic vision supports Kenya’s digital transformation agenda and aims to build a responsive and citizen-centric service delivery ecosystem. His expertise spans human-centric service design, digital infrastructure development, and cybersecurity, making him a key figure in advancing Kenya’s digital government initiatives.

Before assuming his current role in January 2023, he served as the Deputy Director General of Immigration Services from January to December 2022. From 2016 to 2021, he was Kenya’s Ambassador to Brazil, with concurrent accreditation to Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Chile, and the broader South American region. His diplomatic tenure underscored his capacity to foster global partnerships and promote Kenya’s interests on the international stage.

Ambassador Ochieng has actively participated in global forums, where he has shared insights and best practices on digital governance and public service innovation. His commitment to knowledge sharing and international collaboration continues to position him as a prominent voice in shaping digital governance in Africa and beyond.

Caline Djiowa

Co-Founder
Saphir Capital

Caline is an international entrepreneur and management consultant with over 18 years of experience. Her professional journey centres on the synergy of new venture development, business engineering, technology, and financing. A key aspect of her work involves analysing market and economic dynamics and technology trends to develop innovative services. She has held leadership roles in Big Four and technology companies.

Caline serves as a board member of a company providing director services to alternative investment and private equity funds. She is also the co-founder of an investment and acceleration firm dedicated to bridging the gap between investors seeking impactful opportunities and West African businesses aiming to scale. Most recently, Caline co-founded a Togo-based firm specializing in IT nearshoring, IT outsourcing, and professional services.

A central focus of Caline’s work is her commitment to fostering ecosystems that prioritize capacity building, digitalization, and sustainable funding as core strategies for impactful growth. Caline holds a master’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in business management and information systems engineering from a leading business school in France.

Helena Lepp

Director of Service Transformation
Digital Nation

Helena Lepp is the Director of Service Transformation at Digital Nation, an Estonia-based digital change advisory that supports governments worldwide in their digital transformation journeys. She has over a decade of experience in digital governance and service transformation, both in Estonia and internationally.

She has previously led the Digital Services Team in Estonia’s Government CIO Office from 2017 to 2021, focusing on user-centric public service design, policy and digital strategies. Helena has also supported African governments in their digital transformation initiatives as a digitalisation expert in the African Union – European Union Digital for Development Hub.

Dr Ralph Oyini

Director of Digital Transformation and Services
Smart Africa

Dr. Ralph Oyini Mbouna is an accomplished electrical engineer with a Ph.D. from Temple University in Philadelphia, USA, where he also served as an associate professor in the College of Engineering. His academic and research work focused on advanced technologies in signal processing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and intelligent systems.

In 2015, he returned to Africa to join ARCEP Gabon, the national regulatory authority for electronic and postal communications, as Director of the Universal Service Access Fund. In this role, he led the design and implementation of nationwide connectivity initiatives aimed at expanding internet and mobile access to underserved rural populations.

Dr. Ralph Oyini Mbouna currently serves as Director of Digital Transformation and Services at Smart Africa, based in Kigali, Rwanda. He leads two flagship continental programs: the Technology-Driven Entrepreneurship Program and the Digital Services Enablers Program, both central to Smart Africa’s mission of building Africa’s Single Digital Market. Through these initiatives, he is helping to shape a pan-African environment where young people can innovate, launch, and scale digital businesses across borders.

Fireside chat

Aziz Bourghourbal

CEO
Africa Ocean Group

Aziz Boughourbal is a distinguished entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience and a prominent figure in both the economic and sporting spheres of Mauritania. As CEO of Africa Ocean Group, he has steered the company’s growth into one of the most influential players in the national fishing industry, employing nearly 3,000 people and collaborating with key markets across West Africa, Asia, and Europe—including the Baltic States. His achievements have earned recognition in leading international media outlets such as Forbes Afrique, Financial Afrik, TV5 Monde, Le Monde, BeIn Sports, and Jeune Afrique.

Beyond the business world, Boughourbal has made a lasting impact in sports. In 1999, he cofounded Football Club Nouadhibou, which has since become one of Mauritania’s most successful and respected football clubs. From 2002 to 2006, he served as President of the Mauritanian Football Federation (FFRIM), where he led efforts to revive Mauritanian football from near collapse. Deeply committed to the development of sports nationwide, he currently serves as First Vice President of FFRIM.

Aziz Boughourbal holds a master’s degree in Management and Finance from the Lincoln International Business School. Through his dynamic leadership and cross-sector influence, he exemplifies a new generation of West African leaders driving change at the intersection of business and sport.

Powering Africa’s Green Future

Mika Jantunen

Regional Director, Sub-Saharan Africa
Finnish Water Forum

Mika Jantunen is an innovation enthusiastic and systemic thinker with a developmental approach. Mika holds degrees from three different Universities: University of Tampere in Finland, University of Stockholm in Sweden and Oxford University in UK. He has wide range of expertise from many industries among other things but not limited to ICT and software, various service businesses, Smart City technologies and services, circular economy, renewable energy, education and water management and industries. He has lived and worked in Africa since 2013 and helped various companies to enter African markets.

He is currently Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa for Finnish Water Forum (FWF). FWF is a non-profit organisation with over 130 members whose expertise covers all aspects of water. FWF wants to contribute actively in Sub Saharan Africa to address challenges in water. FWF’s vision is: clean water for everyone.

Phyian Karinge

Senior Product Manager
Agribora

Phyian Karinge is a leading advocate for leveraging technology to drive agricultural development across Africa. Phyian has been instrumental in the development and implementation of innovative solutions that address critical challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and sustainable farming practices. Phyian has led the development of impactful digital tools that have empowered over 10,000 farmers and agricultural businesses, streamlining access to vital resources and credit facilities.

Recognized globally for her contributions, Phyian is a recipient of the Global WomenTech Award and a sought-after speaker at major tech and agricultural forums, including the UNSGA roundtable with Queen Maxima and Google WomenTechMakers.

Georg Rute

CEO
Gridraven

Georg Rute is the co-founder and CEO of Gridraven, a fast-growing technology company addressing critical bottlenecks in power grids through intelligent AI-driven solutions. With its newly established presence in the U.S. and a strong team of experts driving energy innovation, Gridraven is set to lead the energy industry into a more efficient future.

Before launching Gridraven, Georg led digitalisation at Estonia’s national grid, Elering. He spearheaded the digitalisation task force, crafted the digital strategy, and guided IT investments. As head of the Smart Grid Unit, Georg also helped build a Europe-wide energy data platform.

Before that, Georg was the CTO and co-founder of Sympower, which now manages 1.5GW of grid flexibility and a team of 200+. He holds a Master’s in Sustainable Energy from Imperial College London.

Morwesi Ramonyai Thonga

CEO, 4DGrid
World Bank Senior Advisor

Morwesi is an entrepreneur specializing in Climate Tech Innovation, and currently developing an IoT device that supports demand-side management for the residential sector in South Africa. As a World Bank Senior Advisor, she is also responsible for the conceptualization of the Just Adaptation and Resilience Investment Plan for the Presidential Climate Commission.

She has worked extensively across renewable energy, carbon management, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sectors. Her expertise spans solar energy project developments, carbon footprint reporting, carbon offset trading, eco-audits, and Training. She also provides strategic guidance on ESG matters. Her research into community-based energy systems for Access to Energy and energy security further reflects her commitment to fostering resilient and sustainable livelihoods.

Morwesi holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Rhodes University, an Executive MBA from the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB), an International Executive Development Program (IEDP) qualification from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), and a Higher Diploma in Computer Auditing from Wits Business School. During her fellowship at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA, she also earned a Sustainability Leadership Certificate.

Unlocking New Partnerships

Peter Mariën

Team Leader for Digital Governance
European Commission, Directorate General for International Partnerships

Peter Mariën has worked in the context of International Partnerships for over 15 years, and previously worked in banking and treasury. During his work with the European Commission, he was posted in Europe as well as in EU Delegations in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Since September 2020, Mr. Mariën works at DG INTPA’s unit working on Digital Transformation, where he is head of sector for Digital Governance. He holds a master is in Business Economics and an EMLE in Law and Economics.

Liisi Org

CEO
Latitude59

Liisi Org is a passionate community builder, strategic leader, and the CEO of Latitude59—Estonia’s flagship startup and tech conference that’s become a global platform for early-stage innovation. She leads a powerhouse team of 18+ people, curating an unforgettable experience that brings together 4000+ bold thinkers annually in Tallinn, with new satellite editions now in Kenya and Singapore.

Her startup journey kicked off in New York City, working with EdTech pioneers at NYU’s StartEd Accelerator. She also orchestrated the city’s largest EdTech Festival, managing 300+ speakers, an electric opening show with the NYC Mayor and Broadway artists, and a community of innovators at scale. Back in Estonia, she led national startup efforts at Startup Estonia, building the most comprehensive database of 1,600+ startups and strengthening the ecosystem from within.

Today, Liisi also serves as Estonia’s National Expert for the World Summit Awards (WSA), amplifying tech solutions that drive social change. With a background in project management, strategic planning, and a deep-rooted passion for ecosystem growth, she continues to boldly open doors for founders across borders.

Holy Ranaivozanany

Deputy Executive Director
Africa-Europe Foundation

Holy Ranaivozanany is the Deputy Executive Director at the Africa-Europe Foundation, overseeing the Foundation’s strategy, advocacy, and partnership efforts and positioning it at the forefront of global dialogues on climate and development, health equity, sustainable finance, and youth empowerment.

Prior to joining the Foundation, Holy has held leadership roles across Africa, Europe, and Asia, where she successfully led sustainability initiatives for Fortune 500 companies, covering strategy, policy work and communications. Under her leadership, she launched global programmes on digital inclusion, circular economy and disaster relief, and drove corporate engagement with international organisations, civil society and academia.

Holy has served in advisory roles and as an advocate for multilateral diplomacy, earning recognition for her leadership in sustainability. She has also contributed to several policy notes and academic research papers on sustainability, global emergency and digital skills.

Katrin Winter

Regional Head, Africa
ESTDEV

Katrin Winter is the Regional Head for Africa at the Estonian Centre for International Development. She initiates and leads interventions with a strong digital development and inclusion focus in education, innovation and entrepreneurship, and governance across East and Southern Africa. Her strong academic background in Sino-Africa relations focusing on resource management and governance ties in with her extensive work experience in development from Bangladesh to Zimbabwe. Mrs Winter has previously managed programmes for policy change and social inclusion with the British Council, financing development and gender aspects for the World Food Programme and consulted a number of international NGOs on fundraising, strategic communications and programming.

In her current role, she is passionate about identifying and implementing shared objectives for Africa and Europe, and extending the existing narratives on Africa in Estonia. Mrs Winter is driven by cooperation opportunities to create synergies between countries, people and organisations towards a more inclusive global society.

Digital products breakout session

Chidi Afulezi

Managing Principal
redKola Digital

Chidi Afulezi is on a mission to build the best products and product people the world needs. He is a product guy, digital insurgent, creative educator and an entrepreneur with a day job as Managing Principal of redKola Digital, a product management and digital transformation company. He is also a Managing Partner at the ZVG, a communications products consultancy. In addition to The Core Ventures, and jHunta, Chidi co-founded aKoma, a platform for the creative and cultural industries in Africa.

Chidi coaches and consults with leading product leaders and product teams in the private and public sectors globally, and is currently building the Product Leadership Accelerator, a Pan-African associate product management program. Chidi is a prolific educator, serving as a product faculty and instructor at the African Leadership University School of Business, Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley, the CRA Public Sector Fellowship, and General Assembly. He is based in Atlanta, Lagos and Kigali.

Paul Karuiki

Director ICT
The Business Registration Service (BRS)

Paul Kariuki is the Director ICT at the Business Registration Service (BRS), Kenya. He oversees the overall formulation and implementation of the ICT strategy and Digital Transformation at BRS.

Prior to joining the Business Registration Service, he worked as a consultant for the World Bank Group for eight years implementing digital reforms across Sub-Saharan Africa. His expertise spans digital transformation, technology governance, and business process reengineering. He has worked in multiple countries, driving technology initiatives to foster market creation, improve business environment, and enable economy-wide reforms through the provision of enhanced services for businesses (G2B) and citizens (G2C).

Beyond advisory roles, he has served as Ag. Director ICT and lecturer in several public universities, mentoring and shaping the next generation of technology leaders. He holds a degree in Information Technology and an MSc in Data Communications.

Dr Ralph Oyini

Director of Digital Transformation and Services
Smart Africa

Allan Bernard

GovTech Lead Architect
Nortal

Allan is a senior government technical architect and consultant at Nortal. He has been consulting and working on many foundational building blocks of Estonian, German, Canadian and other countries’ digital governments, such as digital identity, data exchange and interoperability, data governance, and technology selection and strategy.

Taavi Toomere

Head of Data Exchange Products
Cybernetica

Taavi Toomere serves as Head of Data Exchange Products at Cybernetica AS, an Estonian leader in e-Government solutions and applied research. He specializes in architecting secure data exchange and interoperability frameworks for digital governments.

Taavi provides strategic consulting and technical expertise to international clients, with project experience as a consultant and solution architect spanning regions including Africa (Kenya, Madagascar), the Middle East (Oman, Saudi Arabia), Asia (Malaysia), and the Caribbean (Bahamas). He contributes significantly to research on next-generation platforms and has co-authored several digital government platform studies.

Procurements breakout session

Jana Silaškova

Head of Internationalization
Estonian ICT Association (ITL)

Jana Silaškova serves as the Head of Internationalization at the Estonian ICT Association (ITL) where she plays a pivotal role in supporting ITL’s members in their global expansion efforts. With a strong focus on development cooperation, she fosters strategic partnerships with international and regional organizations and clusters, such as the UN organizations, Organization of American States, Smart Africa, and the EU D4D Hub.

Ms Silaškova has organized many practical workshops, trainings and forums on digitalization, raising awareness in developing countries about e-Governance technologies to support their economy, democracy and good governance. Having worked at the Estonian Ministry of Finance for 9 years, she has extensive experience with foreign funding. Jana has also coordinated and hosted numerous high-level business delegations to and from developing countries. At the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she organized events and trainings to support companies in their business and export ambitions.

Jana holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Languages and a Master’s Degree in Interpretation.

Peter Mariën

Team Leader for Digital Governance
European Commission, Directorate General for International Partnerships

Mouna Zine

Senior Procurement Analyst
UNOPS Procurement Group

Mouna Zine serves as a Senior Procurement Analyst within the UNOPS Procurement Group. Her professional background in international development encompasses both field-based operational roles and headquarters appointments.

Her areas of specialization include supply chain policy and standards, electronic procurement, supplier relationship management, risk mitigation, sustainable procurement practices, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Siim Esko

International Project Development Lead
Positium

Siim Esko mainly works with large public sector institutions across Asia, Africa and South America to leverage location data from mobile networks. He used to work for the public think tank Estonian Development Fund as an expert on foresight and emerging economies. Siim has graduate degrees in business from Copenhagen and Vienna. He now leads the business development at Positium.

Positium has been analysing big data from mobile network operators for 15+ years. The effect has been used for data-driven insights by all levels of government in Estonia. Positium now builds big data analytics for governments of various countries globally, with projects in over 15 countries to date.

Laur Mägi

Business Area Lead
Helmes

Laur Mägi is a business leader with over 20 years of experience in developing strategic partnerships and long-term relationships with large international clients. As Business Area Lead at Helmes, he builds and leads high-performing teams that deliver complex digital solutions aligned with clients’ business goals.

With a background spanning both public and private sectors, Laur brings deep expertise in stakeholder management, cross-border collaboration, and sustainable growth. He is known for fostering trusted partnerships that enable innovation at scale.

MODERATOR

Anett Numa

Chief of International Affairs
Neverhack Group

Anett Numa is the Chief of International Affairs at Neverhack Group, the world’s foremost cybersecurity company. In her role, she is responsible for leading the company’s global representation and fostering strategic partnerships with governments, international organizations, and key policymakers.

With over seven years of experience in cyber defence, digital transformation, and public-private collaboration, she brings a wealth of expertise in shaping policies that drive innovation while overcoming regulatory barriers. Her career has been rooted in the Estonian public sector, where she held significant roles such as the Head of Government Relations at Accelerate Estonia. She also served as an International Cyber Defence Policy Adviser at the Ministry of Defence of Estonia, focusing on NATO and EU cyber policies, and coordinating international support for the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE).Anett has advised governments around the world on Estonia’s success in digital transformation as a Digital Transformation Adviser at the e-Estonia Briefing Centre.

As a passionate speaker and moderator, she frequently shares her insights on cyber resilience, innovation, and digitalization at international forums, advocating for stronger global collaboration and enhanced cybersecurity practices.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Joel Karubiu

Export Adviser in Kenya
Estonian Business and Innovation Agency

Joel Karubiu is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience as an innovative and creative solutions provider with an edge in business development strategies. Joel has served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC) and the Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK), delivering customer-centric value across multiple channels.

Joel has also held various high-level roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC), Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA), British Airways World Cargo (BAWC), and Haco Industries Limited. He has been recognised for building strong brands using integrated marketing strategies while contributing strongly to strategic business planning and developing long-term growth plans.

Joel currently serves as the Export Adviser, and his purpose is to enhance the trade relations between Estonia and Kenya by supporting Estonian companies to venture into new markets, find value connections and succeed. Backed by a strong educational background, Joel can navigate the daily business challenges that companies face, offering workable solutions, creating strong networks, and making sound judgments on opportunities, which are the cornerstones of today’s business environment.

In addition, he serves on numerous management boards across multiple sectors, including financial services, education, manufacturing and the domain name ecosystem. He is passionate about youth development in marketing and entrepreneurship, leads talks with student marketers on their career journeys. Joel’s social inputs are felt as a Charter Member of the Lions Club of Nairobi South, Committee member of the Young Scientists of Kenya, amongst other roles.

MUSICIAN OF THE DAY

DJ Yas Lo

DJ and master of turntables

Yasin better known as DJ Yas Lo, is a master of the turntables hailing from Tanzania and lighting up Estonia’s music scene with his uncanny ability to gauge the audience’s pulse. DJ Yas Lo boasts a diverse musical repertoire, spanning Afrobeats, Amapiano, RnB, Hip Hop and House Music, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit in blending genres.

Beyond the decks, DJ Yas Lo is the visionary behind Afro Chill, a pioneering cultural initiative in Estonia that celebrates the rich tapestry of African and Caribbean cultures. Afro Chill’s mission is to forge a cultural bridge between Estonia and the dynamic cultures of Africa, fostering social unity, understanding, and inspiration through the arts. Emphasising diversity, inclusivity, and societal impact, Afro Chill is at the forefront of cultural education and development.

Registration

Registration has been closed. Looking forward to meeting you in Tallinn!

There is no registration fee for the Africa Business Forum.
Travel and accommodation costs are to be covered by the participants.
In case you need an official letter of invitation for the visa application, please indicate it on the registration form and the organisers will contact you in due course.
All members of a delegation are required to register separately.

Practical information

VENUE

Africa Business Forum 2025 takes place at Radisson Collection Hotel Tallinn Conference centre at 3 Rävala Street, 10143 Tallinn.

The hotel is located in the city centre, and is easily reached by public transport or taxis.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS AND ACCOMMODATION

The most comfortable way to reach Tallinn is by plane, as the airport is very close to the city centre. There are also good train, ferry and bus connections from neighbouring countries.

We have arranged special rates for the participants in select hotels in Tallinn for the period of 25-29th of May 2025. The rates are subject to availability. In case you require accommodation at other/extended dates, please e-mail the hotels directly.

Please follow the instructions below when requesting booking.

5* Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn

(Business Forum venue)

3 Rävala Street, 10143, Tallinn

Dates: 25–29.05.2025

Room type: Collection class room

Daily rate: 190 € single use / 210 € double use

Rate includes: buffet breakfast, entrance to spa & relaxation area and VAT.

Payment: on spot.

Password: ABF25

Reservation method: Reservations can be made by e-mail reservations.tallinn@radissoncollection.com referring to password ABF25.

Cancellation: Hotel rooms can be cancelled free of charge until 24 hours before arrival.

Rate is valid until 09.05.2025, but the rooms remain upon availability.

4* Mövenpick Hotel Tallinn

12 Lembitu Street, 10114, Tallinn

Dates: 25–29.05.2025

Room type: Superior class room

Daily rate: 160 € single use / 185 € double use

Rate includes: Buffet breakfast, entrance to Relaxation Area, and VAT.

Password: ABF25

Reservation method: Reservations can be made by e-mail reservations.duco@accor.com referring to password ABF25.

Cancellation: Hotel rooms can be cancelled free of charge until 24 hours before arrival.

Rate is valid until 28.04.2025, but the rooms remain upon availability.

3* ibis Tallinn Center

28 Juhkentali Street, 10132, Tallinn

Dates: 25–29.05.2025

Room type: Superior class room

Daily rate: 80 € single use / 90 € double use

Rate includes: Buffet breakfast and VAT.

Password: ABF25

Reservation method: Reservations can be made by e-mail reservations.duco@accor.com referring to password ABF25.

Cancellation: Hotel rooms can be cancelled free of charge until 24 hours before arrival.

Rate is valid until 01.05.2025, but the rooms remain upon availability.

About us

Africa Business Forum is organised by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In case of any enquiries, please contact the organisers at africabusinessforum2025tallinn@mfa.ee.

Visit Tallinn

Spring is an ideal time to visit Estonia and its medieval capital city Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why not extend your stay for a few days and enjoy Tallinn and its surrounding areas?

For more information, please visit the following sites: