From January 22-24, Rome hosted the much-anticipated eighth edition of Italia Africa Business Week (IABW) 2025, a premier 3-day event fostering economic collaboration between Italy and Africa. Under the theme Adapt, Thrive, expand: Turning Challenges into Opportunities, the event highlighted the importance of transforming global challenges into opportunities for shared growth and sustainability. It united key players from diverse sectors, facilitating meaningful dialogue, forging strategic partnerships, and showcasing the vast potential for growth and investment across the two regions.
A Strategic Hub for Innovation and Partnerships
The forum brought together over 450 participants, including government representatives, entrepreneurs, international institutions, policymakers and members of the African diaspora, where they shared their perspectives on driving economic transformation through mutual collaboration between the two regions. The opening day, hosted at the Farnesina, set the stage for engaging discussions, while the following sessions at the Conference Center Villa Aurelia provided an immersive environment for thematic workshops and B2B and B2G meetings.
A key takeaway from the event was the strong focus on the synergy between the African and Italian economies, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, agribusiness, digital transformation, and fashion. Discussions highlighted the growing potential of ‘Made in Africa’ as a driver of economic growth and a catalyst for fair and sustainable trade.
Key Insights and Meaningful Connections
Beyond the structured panels, the real value of Italia Africa Business Week (IABW) 2025 lay in the dynamic networking sessions. Engaging with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals provided a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in cross-continental partnerships. Conversations reinforced a central theme: growth is driven by collaboration.
A significant takeaway was the growing need for strategic alliances to bridge market gaps and drive innovation. Industries ranging from fashion and technology to agriculture and logistics are ripe for Italian African synergies. The discussions pointed out the importance of sustainable investments, knowledge-sharing, and long-term partnerships in fostering mutual economic progress.
One of the most compelling themes at IABW 2025 was the role of the African diaspora in fostering economic development. Recognized as a strategic bridge between the two continents, diaspora entrepreneurs and investors are playing an increasingly important role in shaping sustainable business models and enhancing bilateral cooperation. This theme closely aligned with discussions on youth training and employment, highlighting the private sector’s vital contribution to capacity-building and job creation.
Another highlight was the focus on finance for development, with dedicated sessions exploring innovative financial instruments to support SMEs and startups. These conversations reinforced the need for stronger economic frameworks to facilitate access to capital and encourage investment in high-impact sectors.
My Personal Experience and Contribution
Beyond attending the insightful sessions, I had the incredible opportunity to actively contribute to the Italia Africa Business Week (IABW) 2025 by being part of a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities for African creatives in global markets. Speaking to an audience of business leaders, investors, and policymakers, I emphasized the role Italy can play in empowering African creatives through education, collaboration, and skills transfer. The discussion was rich, thought-provoking, and a true testament to the power of diverse voices in shaping a more inclusive global creative industry.
Additionally, I had the chance to connect with like-minded professionals and explore potential collaborations that bridge the gap between African creativity and the Italian market. The event reinforced my belief that Africa’s creative and business sectors hold immense potential, and with the right strategies and partnerships, the continent’s brands can thrive internationally.
Looking Ahead
Attending the Italia Africa Business Week 2025 was an inspiring experience, reaffirming the transformative power of international cooperation. With a clear focus on sustainable investments and innovation, the event showcased the immense potential of strategic alliances between Italian and African enterprises. The discussions reinforced a shared commitment to overcoming economic challenges through knowledge-sharing, innovation, and long-term partnerships.
The momentum generated at IABW 2025 is just the beginning. As Italy and Africa continue to strengthen their economic ties, the forum has laid the foundation for future collaborations that will drive meaningful and lasting growth.
Phutheho Ranooe
At Roncucci&Partners we help companies develop themselves and their business, embrace change and evolve to thrive in a world that is increasingly complicated, insidious and requires great expertise. We do this by applying punctual methods and rigorous strategies, the result of many years of experience and the richness of the numerous success stories we have conducted all over the world. Passion and method are indeed our guides to enhance the present and build the future.
