Category: SEZ

Farewell to Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha – the founding father of the AMAHORO! partnership

Post Author From Lenawimmer
Post date June 26

It's long-standing human wisdom that humanity is better off when it works together. Yet, there are few people who know how to live it. One of these people was Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha. With deep sympathy, we mourn the passing of the pioneer of the AMAHORO! state partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi, who passed away on June 19, 2025.

The partnership must thus bid farewell to one of its founding fathers, who, together with former State Parliament President Erich Schneider, launched the vision for the AMAHORO! partnership. As President of the National Assembly of Burundi, he invited the then State Parliament President, whereupon the first Baden-Württemberg delegation traveled to Bujumbura in 1985. Last year, on the occasion of the anniversary of the state partnership, the SEZ was fortunate enough to speak with Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha and gain insights into his personal memories. He told us that the delegation was enthusiastic about the hospitality of the Burundians, that they soon discussed a partnership at the regional level, and that Kayanza Province was chosen for this. His stories have illuminated our understanding of the partnership and clearly demonstrated that it was only successful from the outset because it was conceived and supported by both sides.

We express great respect and gratitude for Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha's work and commitment to the relationship between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. The foundation he laid for the AMAHORO! partnership continues to this day and will continue to shape our cooperation with Burundi in the future.

The Burundian Diaspora in Germany Association makes it clear that Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha was not only the founding father of the AMAHORO! partnership, but also a pioneer and influential figure in Burundian politics and society. It describes Émile Mworoha's work as a teacher, scholar, and politician—in Burundi, on the African continent, and even in Europe—and paints an impressive picture of his personality and the multitude of places of work and partnerships he shaped.

We express our condolences to all relatives and companions of Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha and promise to keep his memory alive.

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Tags AMAHORO!, State partnership

SEZ

Deep Talk with Dr. Mandela

Post Author From hawener
Post date May 21

Dr. Siyabulela Mandela and Philipp Keil during a deep talk at the Fair Handeln trade fair ©SEZ/ Andreas Kustreba

On the opening day of Fair Handeln, a very special evening took place with the friends and supporters of the SEZ.

A select group of guests stayed at the Deep Talk with Dr. Siyabulela Mandela at the Fair Handeln trade fair The conversation between Philipp Keil, Executive Director of the SEZ, and Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, peace and human rights activist and independent consultant in the fields of human rights, international development, and conflict resolution, set a precedent. Not only in terms of content, but also in terms of atmosphere, those present were able to experience the power of social justice and solidarity.

It was an evening that encouraged dialogue, motivated participants, and opened up new perspectives. It was marked by a shared vision: “As long as we stand together, we can make a difference”An evening that aroused curiosity about a man who carries the legacy of a great name with his own experiences, skills, and charm. Over a drink, the opportunity for personal conversation with Dr. Mandela was offered.

It's a tradition that Fair Handeln – the international trade fair for a fair and sustainable life – is the ideal venue for this. As the oldest platform of its kind, it offers committed consumers and trade professionals a unique opportunity to network, gain further education, and give development policy issues a visible platform.

With formats like Deep Talk, the SEZ deliberately creates spaces for encounters, exchange, and inspiration. This transforms the trade fair not just into a presentation platform, but into a lively place for dialogue and the collaborative creation of a fairer future.

Special thanks go to the Stuttgart Trade Fair Center, which supported us in organizing this evening, as well as to all the guests who contributed to this successful event. We look forward to what we will achieve together in the future.

We need you for this – become part of our SEZ support group!

Only together can we initiate sustainable change, realize projects, and bring our vision of a fairer future to life. We look forward to welcoming you to our circle of supporters.

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Impressions of the evening

Guests of the Deep Talk

Dr. Siyabulela Mandela and Philipp Keil, SEZ

Sylvia Holzhäuer-Rupert and Dr. Robert Rupert

Ralf Kunert (Management of naturamus GmbH)

Dr. Siyabulela Mandela and Philipp Keil

Helene Prölß (Managing Director of the managerohnegrenzen Foundation gGmbH), Njeri Kinyanjui (Entrepreneur & Consultant Fasiri), Raquel Dischinger (SEZ)

Philipp Keil (SEZ)

Eberhard Wachter (Sustainable Location Development and Sustainability Management - Stuttgart Region Economic Development GmbH)

Bernd Gnann (actor, speaker & presenter)

Guido von Vacano (Executive Vice President, Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG), Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, Marco Giraldo (Managing Partner, TourCert gGmbH), Philipp Keil (SEZ)

Photos: SEZ/ Andreas Kustreba

Contact Person

Philip Keil

Executive Board

Tags Act fairly, Mandela

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP SEZ

Peace work in the midst of conflict?

Post Author From annalightly
Post date May 19

In his keynote speech, Dr. Siyabulela Mandela explained how we can learn from the reconciliation process in South Africa. ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Peacebuilding in the midst of conflict? The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo and its impact on Burundi and Rwanda are a concern for the AMAHORO! country partnership. How peace can be achieved in such uncertain times was discussed at the BW-Burundi meeting at the Fair Handeln trade fair.

More than 70 committed and interested people came to the BW-Burundi meeting on 25 April 2025 at the Fair trade fairThey are all concerned about the current situation in eastern Congo and the impact of this war on Burundi and Rwanda. The question arose: How can peace processes be supported in such times?

A possible answer presented Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, who is a consultant for international development, peace, and human rights. In his inspiring keynote speech, he described how South Africa united and reconciled its diverse populations during the freedom struggle and the post-apartheid era. He emphasized that colonialism sowed conflict among people who previously lived together as a community. He sees this exploitation of diversity in particular as the cradle of the ongoing conflicts in Great Lakes Africa.

The panel discussed

Augusta Muhimpundu, EIRENE International Christian Peace Service eV
Raphael Nkurunziza, Youth Empowerment Leadership Initiative (YELI) & Réseau des jeunes pour la paix en Afrique des grands-lacs (RJP-GL)
Herbert Geissbauer, Impulse for Hope eV

Father Dr. Déogratias Maruhukiro moderated the discussion. The focus was on how peace work can be carried out in Burundi given the current situation.

"When we come together, listen to each other, and try to understand the other perspective, we have fewer conflicts. Unfortunately, that's not easy during a crisis." For Augusta Muhimpundu, bringing people into dialogue with one another is essential for peace. Only by developing a shared understanding of history can conflicts be resolved jointly. This leads to sustainable peace.

Raphaël Nkurunziza brought a different perspective. Young people in particular are severely affected by a conflict, but they are given little attention. For this reason, he decided to work for peace with the YELI network. The goal of this network is to empower young people to engage in dialogue and promote peace.

Another form of peace promotion is created by the association Anstoß zur Hoffnung with Herbert Geissbauer. They use Sport as a unifying elementto bring young people together and train them to become peace ambassadors.

In conversation with Father Dr. Déogratias Maruhukiro

Father Dr. Déogratias Maruhukiro heads the Peace Work Cluster in the AMAHORO! State Partnership and works in the field of peace research at the University of Freiburg.

What does peace mean to you?

For me, peace is first and foremost the inner peace that brings me balance. Because if I have this inner peace, then I can also give peace to others. I cannot give something that I don't have. Inner peace is the foundation of all peace.

What do we need to promote reconciliation and peace within a society, but also between societies?

You need the ability to listen to others and engage in dialogue. In an active conflict, it's also necessary to be able to put myself in the other person's shoes. This way, I can understand why they have come into conflict with me.

There's currently a conflict in eastern Congo that also involves Burundi and Rwanda. At the BW-Burundi meeting, we asked ourselves the question: How can we create peace while the conflict is still ongoing? What is your answer to this question?

We can do peace work during a conflict by creating and facilitating spaces for exchange and peace. Enabling people to engage in dialogue is peace work in itself. We try to encourage people to engage more in contact with one another, whether online or in person. Encounter is the foundation of peace.

To advance dialogue in Great Lakes Africa, you founded a network of young people. What is this network called, and what does it do?

As part of our “Peace Work” cluster, we co-founded this new network. It is called Réseau de Jeunes pour la Paix in the région des Grands-Lacs RJP-GL (Youth for Peace in Great Lakes Africa). This network facilitates dialogue between young people from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. We are trying to create a kind of Safe Space, a meeting place for young people to accomplish.
There is already some tension between Rwanda and Burundi. The borders are closed. There is a war in eastern Congo involving Burundi and Rwanda. This Network of young people acts as bridge builders for peace in and between these countries. We try to support, encourage and empower them to take action against hate messages circulating on social media. In order to create a kind of Detoxification of messages create.
We also offer the Colloquia Youth for PeaceYouth for Peace. In 2023, we offered the first colloquium in Burundi, bringing together young people from Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Last year, the colloquium took place in Eastern Congo. And this year, we are trying to offer the colloquium in Rwanda. We have noticed that when young people come together, a kind of trust exists between them. They see each other as friends, neighbors. We must grow together and promote peace together. That is what we have achieved, and that is what we want to continue. To continue building these bridges of peace. to create an identity for Great Lakes AfricaOur goal with the network is for young people to say: We are equal, we want to grow together, we want to find peace together.

Encounters are very important. There are also encounters between people from Baden-Württemberg and people from Burundi. The AMAHORO! state partnership has existed for over 40 years. How can this partnership contribute to promoting peace?

War and peace are important issues around the world. Not only in Africa, but also in Europe, especially when we consider the conflict in Ukraine. People in Baden-Württemberg no longer have any experience with war, having lived in peace for over 50 years.
You can learn something from the people on the ground in Burundi: How do you create peace and foster mutual understanding? Then Burundi can teach the people in Baden-Württemberg something about diplomacy. And how to deal with conflicts. That's also important. Another thing is that many committed people in Baden-Württemberg are working for peace. Many projects are very important. Peace isn't everything. But without peace, everything is nothing. That's why I'm calling on many people to participate in and support this peace work, especially this new network; for peace work, not just for Burundi, but for the Great Lakes region of Africa.

Thank you.

DOHUK PROJECT FUNDING SEZ

Partnership at Fair Handeln: Baden-Württemberg and Northern Iraq

Post Author From hawener
Post date April 23, 2025

Goosebump moments on the podium, informal exchange and networking as well as the virtual visit to Northern Iraq with the exhibition “Nobody’s Listening” We brought the diversity of the partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Northern Iraq to life at the Fair Handeln trade fair. The partnership has existed since 2015. Ten years later, we are deepening our collaboration and have supplemented the diverse Fair Handeln trade fair with three effective program items on the partnership:

A special moment was the panel discussion between Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad and State Secretary Florian Hassler. Both embody both the history of the partnership and its future.

One origin of the partnership is the special contingent provided by the state of Baden-Württemberg, which enabled 1.100 women and children from northern Iraq to have a safe future. Through this special contingent, Baden-Württemberg has assumed humanitarian responsibility in this area, according to State Secretary Hassler. However, it quickly became clear that Baden-Württemberg also provided local support. This led to an initiative with the Dohuk region, which today supports the partnership. To date, over 50 projects in northern Iraq have been supported.

This also applies to projects by Nadia's Initiative, the organization of Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad. In a conversation with State Secretary Hassler, Murad emphasized that sitting on stage here in Stuttgart felt like coming home. She travels a lot, but the beginnings of her commitment lie in Baden-Württemberg: Here, thanks to the special quota, she had the opportunity to find her voice and life partners for Nadia's initiative. These words of appreciation strengthen our commitment to the partnership. They demonstrate that human friendships develop that extend far beyond the project period.

Prof. Dr. Dr. Kizilhan is a trauma psychologist, founder of the Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology at the University of Dohuk, and was primarily responsible for the special contingent. In a conversation with peace researcher Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, he emphasized: "Wars may end, but trauma does not. The trauma of the Yazidis continues." The situation in Iraq remains precarious, and for many affected people, return is not possible. Nadia Murad emphasized early in the partnership that Sinjar should not be forgotten. This is one of the reasons why our goal is to ensure long-term financial security for education, infrastructure, and security projects.

Because in the conversations it becomes clear: we often communicate the success stories from partnerships – of which there are many and beautiful ones that are inspiring – but we cannot imagine the reality of life on the ground here in Baden-Württemberg.

Peace and human rights activist Dr. Mandela taught at the University of Erbil and emphasized the need to rebuild the houses and cities in northern Iraq. This is the only way to give local children a chance for a future at home.

This is where we start today, because after ten years the partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Northern Iraq is more important than ever, for raising awareness in the state and supporting the initiatives in Northern Iraq – in the fight for a future worth living.

Thikran Mato from Nobody's Listening

Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad

Prof. Dr. Dr. Kizilhan, Philipp Keil, State Secretary Hassler, Dr. Mandela and moderator Gulistan Nas

The virtual exhibition Nobody's Listening

The partnership in color

Nadia Murad and Philipp Keil

State Secretary Hassler, translator Manfred Janssen, Nadia Murad and moderator Gulistan Nas

Prof. Dr. Dr. Jan Ilhan Kizilhan

Discussions on partnership at Fair Handeln

Photos: SEZ/fotonoid

Tags Dohuk

SEZ

Year in Review 2024

Post Author From hawener
Post date December 17, 2024

The Burundian delegation was pleased about the appearance of the tambourinaires of the Burundian diaspora in Germany at the national development policy conference (©: State Ministry / Franziska Kraufmann).

Development policy country conference with visit of the Burundian delegation led by Foreign Minister Albert Shingiro at Fair Handeln ©State Ministry/ Franziska Kraufmann

Highlights of the SEZ in 2024

Inspired by the Burundian proverb: “Inzira ntibara inkuru – In “On a journey you encounter a multitude of stories” we take you on a picture journey through the year 2024 of the SEZ.

Click through our highlights from the projects and review the diverse events and moments – have fun!

Future Fashion Experts educational weekend ©SEZ/Theo Stumpp

Mindchangers closing event in the New Palace ©SEZ/ Daniel Kilgus

Mindchangers final event "Spot on Young Power" in the New Palace ©SEZ/ Daniel Kilgus

Municipal conference at Fair Handeln ©fotonoid/SEZ

Regional conference of the REZ in Ulm ©SEZ

The SEZ visits Dohuk, Northern Iraq ©SEZ

Dr. Schach, Acquiline Schach and Sister Joséphine at the anniversary celebration in Burundi ©SEZ

Burundian delegation visits Baden-Württemberg ©SEZ

Philipp Keil, Domitila Barros and Minister Hauk at the Fair Handeln ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Doren Dinglinger at the anniversary celebration in Stuttgart ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Future Fashion campaign at the trade fair ©DEAB

Timi Olanrewaju, State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet and Philipp Keil at the G-PAD Forum ©LEAD Africa International

Retreat of the Council for Development Cooperation ©SEZ

3rd place in the competition "Your rhyme for fairness" at the anniversary celebration in the New Palace ©Dominique Brewing/ Fairtrade Germany

Future Fashion fashion show ©SEZ/Pascal Crocoll

The SEZ visits a conference in Dohuk ©SEZ

anniversary celebration in Berlin ©LVBW

G-PAD Forum at the hy-fcell trade fair ©LEAD Africa International

The Camerata Europeana at the anniversary celebration with benefit concert ©SEZ/Fotonoid

anniversary celebration in Bujumbura ©SEZ

Bwirkt! Brunch at Fair Handeln ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Community event at the Future Fashion fashion show ©SEZ/Pascal Crocoll

Joy Alemanzung and Arndt Franz at the G-PAD Forum at the hy-fcell trade fair ©LEAD Africa International

Bwirkt! Brunch at Fair Handeln ©SEZ/Fotonoid

BDD eV's Burundi trip ©BDD eV

Mindchangers closing event in the New Palace ©SEZ/ Daniel Kilgus

anniversary celebration in Berlin ©LVBW

The award-winning classes of the Scheffel-Gymnasium Bad Säckingen and the Realschule Tiengen with Minister of Education Schopper at the Fairtrade Schools anniversary celebration ©Dominique Brewing/ Fairtrade Germany

40 years of Amahoro! at Fair Handeln ©SEZ/ fotonoid

Bwirkt! Brunch at Fair Handeln ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Mindchangers closing event in the New Palace ©SEZ/ Daniel Kilgus

Fair Trade Fair ©SEZ/fotonoid

F*ck Up Night by Mindchangers in the StadtPalais ©SEZ

Andy Mwag Band at the Summer Festival of Cultures ©SEZ/fotonoid

Networking meeting of the partnership groups at Fair Handeln ©fotonoid/SEZ

Minister of Culture Schopper and Nicole Kimmel from the State Ministry at the Fairtrade Schools anniversary celebration ©Dominique Brewing/ Fairtrade Germany

Arthur Niyimpaye at the anniversary celebration in Stuttgart ©SEZ/Fotonoid

anniversary celebration in Burundi ©SEZ

Team trip to Heidelberg ©SEZ

Dohuk, Northern Iraq ©SEZ

Future Fashion Experts educational weekend ©Theo Stumpp/ SEZ

Mindchangers International Youth Meeting in Brussels ©SEZ

Network meeting Africa Forum at Fair Handeln ©Cengiz Akaygün

Bwirkt! Brunch at Fair Handeln ©SEZ/Fotonoid

Workshop participants at the 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg ©CamiloAmayaFotograf

Steffen Müller. Ambassador Albert Shingiro and Ambassador Carsten Hölscher at the anniversary celebration in Burundi ©SEZ

Network meeting Africa Forum at Fair Handeln ©Cengiz Akaygün

Tags Review of the year, SEZ

SEZ BUSINESS

G-PAD Forum 2024

Post Author From tejada
Post date December 11, 2024

G-PAD Forum at the hy-fcell trade fair ©LEAD Africa International

Participants of the 7th G-PAD Forum ©Lead Africa International eV

For the first time, the Global Partnerships for African Development (G-PAD) Forum took place in cooperation with the Landesmesse Stuttgart at the renowned hydrogen trade fair hy-fcell. This new partnership offered an ideal platform to present innovative approaches and groundbreaking ideas for a sustainable energy transition.

The 7th G-PAD Forum has once again proven to be an important meeting place for bringing people, ideas and companies together. Through the cooperation with the hy-fcell Expo and Conference, a central hub for the energy industry, participants this year were able to benefit from a unique combination of conference and direct exchange.

Under this year’s theme Unlocking Africa's Renewable Energy Potential On October 9, 2024, G-PAD placed the African continent at the center of the forum as a key player for renewable energies. Top-class speakers, exciting panel discussions and diverse networking opportunities made the event a success.

A highlight of the event were the inspiring lectures and lively panel discussions:

Arndt Franz, CEO of Mahle: "Renewable energy has great potential as it can cover 10.000 times the world's energy needs. The process starts locally, but we need cooperation: Europe needs Africa and the energy. Africa's future is promising."
State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet: "The transition to renewable energy requires international cooperation. Africa is a key partner for us here. Partnerships with Africa are crucial for Germany: they mean diversification for us, and Africa benefits from investments. Cooperation in the field of renewable energy reduces dependence on fossil energy sources and promotes freedom and peace on a global level."
Joy Alemazung, Mayor of Heubach: “When you go to Europe, bring something with you: bring your expertise, bring the sun, bring the wind.”
Dr. Ibrahim Kolawole Muritala, ABS Global Sustainability Center Houston: "We need global investment. To achieve this, we must overcome the two biggest hurdles: the infrastructure deficit and transport."
Prof. Martin Neumann, Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences: "Africa has the potential to become a global market leader in renewable energy. The biggest hurdles are the infrastructure and legal framework."
Katrin Puetz, (B) Energy GmbH: "It's about making the change: from buying gas to biogas. We also need to change the narrative: not all people in Africa are poor. Biogas has always been promoted as a solution for poor people. We need to change that narrative."
Marie Badiane-Mbuyu, Alexander & Partner: "There is money in Africa. We absolutely have to stop the narrative that Africa is poor. We need a change in our hearts, in our minds and we need a fair distribution."

Timi Olanrewaju, Isabell Knüttgen, Guido von Vacano and Philipp Keil ©LEAD Africa International eV

Joy Alemazung and Arndt Franz in the audience

State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet with Timi Olanrewaju and Philipp Keil

Visitors to the G-PAD Forum during a musical break

Dr. von Netzer, Prof. Brando Okolo, Marie Badiane-Mbuyu, Katrin Puetz and Ahmed Alhassan Kinbokun in conversation

Contributions from the audience enriched the discussions

The expertise and interest of the participants are valuable contributions to the G-PAD Forum

participants in conversation

At the end, the organizer Timi Olanrewaju of Lead Africa International eV together: "We want to be responsible for our own narrative. Africa is the solution to the global energy problem."

The combination of hy-fcell trade fair and G-PAD Forum on October 9, 2024 provided an exceptional platform for honest and inspiring discussions, new collaborations and possible business opportunities.

cooperation partners

Wednesday, 29th November 2023

G-PAD Forum 2023: Politics meets Pan-Africanism

On October 20, 2023, 250 participants of the Global Partnership for

Tags G-PAD, Lead Africa International eV

(POST)MIGRANT ORGANIZATIONS COMMITTED IN BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG SEZ

2nd Africa Forum #RewritingTheNarrative

Post Author From hawener
Post date December 11, 2024

In a lively discussion with Grace Alele, Contimi Kenfack Mouafo, Mervdy Nkangu, Faisal Osman and moderator Jenny Mushegera (from left to right), the diversity of young people’s commitment became visible ©CamiloAmayaPhotographer

On October 26, 2024, the 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg became the centerpiece of the Ludwigsburg Africa Days. Under the motto #RewritingTheNarrative - Shaping the future together, the meeting was dedicated to young voices and new narratives from the Afrodiaspora. A day that broadened perspectives, created inspiration and paved the way to a sustainable future together.

Continuation of a Vision: The 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg
After the successful start of the first Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg 2022 under the motto #ChangingTheNarrative The 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg sent a strong signal on October 26, 2024 in Ludwigsburg: #RewritingTheNarrative was the focus and addressed the reorientation of narratives about Africa and the path to a fairer and more sustainable future. This year's focus was on the active role of the Afro-diasporic community and its contribution to key future issues.

In the spotlight: Contimi Kenfack Mouafo – Germany's Student of the Year 2024
Contimi Kenfack Mouafo, founder of 3 E's 4 Africa eV, the event. His message: young people and local engagement are central elements for forward-looking cooperation between the diaspora and global actors. His words set the tone for a forum that celebrated innovative ideas and the power of joint efforts.

strengthening political participation
A central concern of the forum was the promotion of political participation. The Pan-African Council of Baden-Württemberg, founded this year, played a key role in this. Silvia Holzhäuer-Ruprecht and Dr. David Tchakoura presented the council and its vision:

“There can be no discussion about Africa without including Africa itself.”

Representatives Njeri Kinyanjui, Nzimbu Cathy Mpanu-Mpanu-Plato and Vera Sompon shared their personal stories and motivations that led them into politics. Their perspectives highlighted the diversity of reasons for political engagement:

“For me it’s about democracy and equal living conditions for all.” (Njeri Kinyanjui)

“My office gives me power – it’s a nice feeling to be able to have a say.” (Vera Sompon)

They also gave valuable tips for entering politics, including: getting informed, starting locally, looking for like-minded people (Cathy Plato); finding mentors and staying open to learning processes (Vera Sompon).

A Bridge Between Generations
The platform dedicated to young voices was particularly impressive. In a lively discussion with Grace Alele, Contimi Kenfack Mouafo, Mervdy Nkangu, Faisal Osman and moderator Jenny Mushegera, the diversity and potential of local engagement became apparent.

The younger generation expressed clear wishes for intergenerational cooperation:

“I hope that there will continue to be open spaces and platforms for our engagement.” (Grace Alele)

“I hope for trust and the exchange of experiences and contacts.” (Faisal Osman)

“We need acceptance for new paths and perspectives.” (Contimi Kenfack Mouafo)

“I hope that people who are not part of the discussion will also be taken into account.” (Mervdy Nkangu)

She thanked those who had pioneered this work and opened doors and built networks, with the hope that this work will continue and be shared.

S. Holzhäuer-Ruprecht and Dr. D. Tchakoura introduce the Pan-African Council in conversation with J. Mushegera ©CamiloAmaya

A day full of inspiration, workshops and enjoyment
In addition to inspiring lectures and discussions, the forum offered practical workshops on topics such as technology transfer, cultural identity and political participation. Special thanks go to all the initiators and participants who enriched the event with their contributions.

Musically, 17-year-old violinist Calia Noémia Celestino Rádio enchanted the audience with a multifaceted repertoire from classical to pop, creating an emotional highlight of an eventful day.

Finally: An impulse that remains
Like the moving sounds of My Way and lift me up, which Calia Noémia Celestino Rádio brought to life on this day, the 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg also stands for the courage to go one's own way and at the same time to inspire and support others.

It reminded us that everyone has the power to rewrite history, build bridges and create a fairer future – in their own way, at their own pace and, above all, in community.

If you would like to become part of the Africa Forum network, contact us or take part in the next events.

YOUR CONTACT PERSONS

SAMRAWIT PETROS

Strategy Partnerships & Africa Forum

Leslie Hawener

Management & Communications Officer

Tags Africa Forum

FUTURE FASHION SEZ

The first Future Fashion Show 2024

Post Author From hawener
Post date December 10, 2024

The first sustainable(er) Future Fashion Show 2024 brought together over 500 people at a large community event and showed that young fashion designers want to shape the future of fashion creatively and sustainably!

On October 12.10.2024, XNUMX, Stuttgart was transformed into a sustainable catwalk where designers, fashion enthusiasts, art and culture enthusiasts, and the club scene came together to celebrate future ideas for the fashion industry.

The community part of the event began at 18 p.m., where visitors could combine, print or upcycle their own clothing or make their own accessories, while receiving inspiration and advice from experts. A workshop offered deeper insights into the question of how "sustainability, fashion and mainstream" fit together and how sustainable labels deal with it. With cool drinks and snacks, the Future Fashion Show offered networking, professional exchange and appreciation for those active in the sustainable fashion movement. And an open door as well as information and educational offers for passing visitors and those newly interested in sustainable fashion.

The main event started at 21 p.m.: the spectacular Future Fashion Show 2024. Young designers from Baden-Württemberg and beyond such as Garbage Couture, Sophia Area, SOKA and Nifrata presented their latest collections and proved that sustainable fashion is innovative, present and trendsetting.

The highlights of the show were presented in voguing style by Stuttgart voguing artists, who got the audience cheering and moving.

The fashion show ended with an after-show party for and with the community, to which the guests brought their most club-worthy second-hand, fair fashion and self-made outfits and celebrated the successful evening in a lively manner. The musical accompaniment turned the catwalk into a dance floor and the event into an experience that will be remembered for a long time.

The Future Fashion Show has proven that there is great support for sustainability in fashion and that many are already actively shaping the decisive change.

This pilot project was only possible thanks to the great voluntary commitment in the preparation, organisation and implementation as well as the financial support of the Future Fashion Community, the Future Fashion Friends and the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg.

Become a part of it!

Here you can find sustainable fashion in Stuttgart and Baden-Württemberg: https://www.futurefashion.de/einkaufen/

Become part of the Future Fashion Friends and make the next fashion show in 2025 possible: www.futurefashion.de/freund-in- Werden

Let us continue to work together and show that change in the fashion and textile industry is possible!

Tags Future fashion, Fashion show

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP SEZ

Two celebrations for the 40th birthday – anniversary of the AMAHORO! state partnership

Post Author From annalightly
Post date December 10, 2024

For more than 40 years, the AMAHORO! state partnership has connected people between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. To mark this anniversary, the Baden-Württemberg Development Cooperation Foundation (SEZ) invited people to two celebrations on November 13, 2024: in Stuttgart and Bujumbura.

The year is 1984. Stevie Wonder's "I Just Called to Say I Love You" is playing on the radio and conquering the charts. But it's not just Wonder who is celebrating a milestone this year, but also the AMAHORO! state partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi: It is the year in which the partnership sees the light of day. Today, in 2024, the heart of this partnership beats stronger than ever. Numerous people from both regions are involved every day in various areas: from education to health to research.
To celebrate this commitment and look back on the last 40 years, the SEZ held two anniversary celebrations simultaneously in Bujumbura and Stuttgart on November 13, 2024.

"I only returned from a business trip this afternoon. But I'm glad I managed to attend this celebration. If you miss your partner's birthday, you've got a problem. Even if it's not a marriage, today we're celebrating a long-term partnership."
This is how Ambassador Albert Shingiro, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi, compared the AMAHORO! country partnership on the occasion of the anniversary celebrations in Bujumbura. A special evening full of memories and exchange was celebrated at the German Embassy in Burundi. With rousing music and a lively atmosphere, the guests looked back on the past four decades.

A special highlight of the evening was the presence of Prof. Emile Mworoha, one of the founding fathers of the partnership. Prof. Mworoha brought both events together as a common connecting element: He personally attended the celebration in Burundi and at the same time addressed an inspiring video message to the guests in Stuttgart. You can read his words about the country partnership on our Youtube channel You can find out more about the beginnings of the AMAHORO! partnership and Prof. Emile Mworoha .

A journey through history: 40 years of AMAHORO!

The Burundian musician, Arthur Niyimpaye, opened the evening with music. The patronage of the evening was assumed by Astère Hatungimana, Chairman of the Burundian Diaspora in Germany eV. The association has always acted as a bridge builder between the two regions and, through its commitment, makes a significant contribution to strengthening relations.
Under the Burundian proverb "Inzira ntibara inkuru - On a journey you encounter a multitude of stories", the committed people looked back on the past four decades, in which countless encounters and projects between people from Baden-Württemberg and Burundi have emerged. The focus of the anniversary celebration was on civil society, which has always been at the core of the AMAHORO! partnership.

Following the festival program, guests were treated to a benefit concert with the Camerata Europeana chamber orchestra. Under the direction of Radoslaw Szulc, the orchestra presented works by great masters: in addition to Handel, Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite" and Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade" were also performed. Solo contributions by Anissa Baniahmad (flute), Tamara Bueno de la Torre (soprano), Bernhard Lörcher (cello) and Doren Dinglinger (violin) provided a musical treat.

The donations from the evening went to projects from the AMAHORO! partnership, such as the Educational project on sustainable agriculture and microfinance for small farmers in Kirundo and Muyinga, carried out by the association Burundi und Wir eV

Visual impressions of the anniversary celebrations:

Steffen Müller, GESTE, Ambassador Albert Shingiro, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi, and Carsten Hölscher, German Ambassador, shook hands in the spirit of partnership (©SEZ).

BENEFIT PROJECT FUNDING SEZ

Christmas fundraiser 2024

Post Author From hawener
Post date November 7, 2024

Join the SEZ Christmas fundraiser!

This year we are celebrating the anniversary of the partnership between Burundi and Baden-Württemberg. With our Christmas fundraising campaign and your donation, we want to promote commitment in Burundi at the end of our anniversary year:

The association Burundi und Wir eV is part of the Burundian diaspora and, together with the Burundian initiative ADDESI, supports small farmers and their families in Burundi. Through access to education and microfinance, women in rural areas provide for their families and shape their community. This year's Christmas donation strengthens women, gives hope and promotes sustainable agriculture.

We would be delighted if you would become part of the AMAHORO! State partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. We will of course issue you with a donation receipt for your generous support - if you wish, even for donations under €300. As a thank you, we would be happy to present you here by name as a project sponsor.

Take part in this year’s SEZ Christmas fundraising campaign and join us in supporting women in rural areas of Burundi.

Bank details for donations

Baden-Württemberg Development Cooperation Foundation (SEZ)

IBAN: DE26 6005 0101 0001 3612 74

BIC: SOLADEST600

Purpose: Jubilaeum24

Thank you!

Contact Person

PHILIPP KEIL

Executive Board

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Join the SEZ Christmas fundraiser!

Bank details for donations

Thank you!

Contact Person

PHILIPP KEIL

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On the opening day of Fair Handeln, a very special evening took place with the friends and supporters of the SEZ.

SEZ support group

Impressions of the evening

Contact Person

In conversation with Father Dr. Déogratias Maruhukiro

Highlights of the SEZ in 2024

cooperation partners

Read more

G-PAD Forum 2023: Politics meets Pan-Africanism

YOUR CONTACT PERSONS

SAMRAWIT PETROS

Leslie Hawener

The first sustainable(er) Future Fashion Show 2024 brought together over 500 people at a large community event and showed that young fashion designers want to shape the future of fashion creatively and sustainably!

For more than 40 years, the AMAHORO! state partnership has connected people between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. To mark this anniversary, the Baden-Württemberg Development Cooperation Foundation (SEZ) invited people to two celebrations on November 13, 2024: in Stuttgart and Bujumbura.

Join the SEZ Christmas fundraiser!

Bank details for donations

Thank you!

Contact Person

PHILIPP KEIL

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