New impulses for IT outsourcing: African companies visit German IT hubs and Hannover Messe

The delegation visited the regional innovation hubs Frankfurt am Main, Karlsruhe, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf, as well as Hannover Messe. Participants exchanged ideas with companies, industry associations and other stakeholders in the innovation ecosystem.

Africa's potential for the IT services market

Against the backdrop of growing skills shortages in Germany and across Europe, cooperation with international talent pools is becoming increasingly important. Particularly countries such as Ghana and Kenya offer increasingly attractive conditions for IT and business process outsourcing (BPO) thanks to its young, well-educated and English-speaking population, and growing investment in digital infrastructure.

Exchanges with German partners highlighted that African providers are becoming increasingly recognised not only for cost advantages, but also for quality, specialisation, and innovative capacity. Digital services such as software development, data analytics, IT support and AI-based applications were are particular focus of the discussions.

Insights into markets, practice, and partnerships

The meeting with DE-CIX, operator of the world's leading internet exchange point in Frankfurt, discussions with regional chambers of industry and commerce (IHKs), and a visit to digihub Düsseldorf provided direct insights into the requirements of the German market. Networking events fostered the development of personal connections with local companies.

The highlight of the visit was Hannover Messe, where the delegation discussed international technology trends and engaged with global industry actors. Discussions on site provided valuable insights into key factors for successful international cooperation. Three aspects stood out in particular:

• Technological developments, particularly in AI, are reshaping the requirements for IT services and outsourcing models. Companies must respond flexibly and continuously adapt their offerings.
• Economic conditions shape companies’ willingness to invest and engage in international partnerships. In challenging economic times, having a resilient business model and a proven track record becomes increasingly important. Trust is built through concrete references and practical experience.
• Long-term partnerships are based on trust, personal interaction and ongoing engagement. All participants emphasised the importance of dialogue on site for building mutual understanding and enabling sustainable cooperation.

The foundation for sustainable digital cooperation

The delegation visit created concrete opportunities for collaboration between German, Ghanaian and Kenyan companies. For this, it was supported by Partners in Transformation.

In the long term, such partnerships help reduce skills shortages in Germany, create high-quality employment opportunities in Africa and strengthen the digital economies of both regions.