As globalisation continues, the focus of German companies is increasingly falling on Africa. Our aim should be to integrate as many African states as possible into the global economy, while at the same time providing substantial support to the economic development of these countries. The German government's projects in Africa to promote peace, health, education, and sustainable economic growth are important in this respect. But German businesses must also make a contribution and take responsibility. At MAN Ferrostaal, tapping into new markets, including the ones in Africa, constitutes an important part of the company's growth strategy. But we are not content to limit our involvement in the region to the economic aspects – we also want to be involved ecologically and socially.

In general, our aim is to achieve a balance between ecological, economic, and social interests. Local value creation, the financing of relevant major projects and the creation of new jobs as well as training opportunities are important to us. Such projects are already contributing to creating a win-win situation.

Our company has many years of experience in Africa, which assists us hugely in our desire to contribute to the technical and economic development of the continent. In the past we have been especially active in Libya, Egypt, and South Africa; now, we are also establishing a subsidiary in Algeria. Opportunities in the renewable energy markets, in particular with regard to solar, heat, and biofuels – taking into account the ideal local climatic conditions for these technologies – act as an incentive for us to pay more attention to Africa in terms of economic activities than was previously the case.