Mediaroom

Industrial cooperation between Europe and Africa in the mobility sector is strengthened. African and European automotive associations taking part at this year’s EU-Africa Business Forum have virtually signed a joint declaration of intent on 16 February, in the presence of the European Commission. Among the signatories was CLEPA Secretary General, Sigrid de Vries.

The declaration sets out the priorities that are crucially important for the continued development of the automotive industry in Africa. The declaration’s key focuses are: developing the use of sustainable energy sources and propulsion systems, digital mobility solutions, and the development of local supply and value chains.

The launch of the AfCFTA – African Continental Free Trade Area was one of the catalysts that led to a joint initiative to develop an initial collaboration amongst European and African Automotive Associations.

“The trade & investment climate in Africa can only be improved together”, commented Dave Coffey, CEO of AAAM – African Association of Automotive Manufacturers. “We are convinced that Africa has great potential to develop a promising automotive industry that will provide long-term employment. The fact that African & European associations have agreed on key points to further develop the industry on the continent is an important milestone. Now political representatives are to support this by creating the framework conditions for the industry to develop and grow”.

Signatories

African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM)
Dave Coffey, CEO
German-African Business Association (Afrika-Verein der deutschen Wirtschaft)
Dr. Markus Thill; Member of the Management Board
German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA)
Andreas Rade, Managing Director
Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM)
Ashit Shah, Chairman Automotive Sector
Tunisian Automotive Association (TAA)
Myriam Elloumi, Vice President
National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers
(NACAAM), South Africa
Renai Moothilal, Executive Director
The Automotive Business Council (NAAMSA)
Mikel Mabasa, Chief Executive Officer
European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA)
Sigrid de Vries, Secretary General
European Business Council for Africa (EBCAM)
Dr. Markus Thill, Member of the Management Board AV
European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA)
Eric-Mark Huitema, Director General
Nigeria Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA)
Tokunbo Aromolaran, Chairman
Automotive Assemblers Association Ghana (AAAG)
Jeffrey Peprah, President

Sources: AAAM and VDA