A bridge between Africa and the Silk Road
Afri-Silkway Economic Development Initiative exists to turn the complementary strengths of two regions into working economic partnerships.
An initiative built around one corridor
Afri-Silkway Economic Development Initiative promotes economic development activities, trade, business and investment, between Africa and the Silk Road countries. We were formed around a simple observation: the two regions need much of what the other can supply, and the main obstacle is not appetite but connection.
We work with businesses, governments, institutions and development partners to close that gap. That means finding the opportunity, testing whether it is real, introducing the people who can act on it, and staying involved while it is built.
What we are working towards
Two statements that set the direction for everything on this site.
Our Vision
To become the leading bridge for economic cooperation between Africa and Silk Road countries, driving sustainable development through trade, investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
Our Mission
To facilitate impactful collaborations that strengthen economic ties, expand investment opportunities, promote international trade, and contribute to inclusive economic growth across Africa and the Silk Road region.
Our core values
Six commitments that shape the way we take on work and treat the people we work with.
Integrity
We give honest assessments, including when the answer is that an opportunity is not ready. Our usefulness depends on being trusted by both sides.
Partnership
We work with people rather than for them, building relationships that continue well beyond a single introduction or transaction.
Inclusive growth
Trade should widen participation. We deliberately create room for small and medium enterprises, women-led businesses and younger entrepreneurs.
Innovation
We look for new routes to market, new financing structures and new applications of technology rather than repeating what has always been done.
Sustainability
Economic gains should hold over time. We favour projects that respect environmental limits and leave lasting capability behind.
Excellence
We prepare thoroughly, follow through on commitments, and hold our work to the standard our partners are entitled to expect.
What sets us apart
Strong connections between Africa and the Silk Road countries are the whole proposition. Here is what that means in practice.
Genuine reach on both sides
Our strength is the relationships themselves. We are known to institutions, chambers and businesses in African and Silk Road markets alike, which means an introduction from us carries weight rather than requiring one.
Corridor knowledge, not general advice
We concentrate on one corridor and know its specifics: which markets pair well, which routes work, where the regulatory friction sits, and who actually decides.
Public and private together
Many barriers to trade are policy barriers. Because we work with governments and businesses at the same time, we can raise a commercial problem where it can be fixed.
Involved past the introduction
We stay engaged through negotiation, agreement and delivery. A meeting is a starting point, not the outcome we are measuring.
Moments & milestones
Markets, corridors and cities across the regions we connect. Photography from our own forums and trade missions is added here as programmes take place.
Let's build the future together
If your organisation is looking outward, towards new markets, new capital or new partners, we would like to understand what you are trying to achieve.