Latest news with #SeonaShand
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Scottish Africa Business Association Embarks on Pioneering Trade Mission to Kenya
The Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) ( is excited to announce a trade mission to Kenya to explore new business opportunities for Scottish companies and institutions, supported by the Scottish Government. This mission will take place from 12-16 th May and will focus on key sectors that promise mutual growth and innovation. One of our key sectors of focus will be around exploring opportunities in both traditional and innovative energy solutions; our delegates will hear about how they can help enhance energy security and efficiency through strategic partnerships and technological advancements. As Kenya leads East Africa in renewable energy production, Scottish companies specialising in wind, solar, geothermal and tidal energy will have the chance to find out more about the opportunities in country. Building on the strong educational links between Scotland and Africa, the delegation will explore opportunities around vocational training, skills development, and university partnerships to empower the next generation. With Kenya's extensive coastline and rich marine resources, the maritime and blue economy sectors offer vast potential. Our mission will explore sustainable practices in aquaculture, fisheries, marine transport and port logistics and infrastructure to boost economic growth while preserving marine ecosystems. Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer at SABA, said: 'SABA'S trade mission to Kenya will feature a comprehensive and engaging programme designed to maximise the benefits for our participants. We'll be hosting B2B meetings, round tables, site visits, networking and receptions providing supreme opportunities for them to win new business.' Scottish businesses should be interested in the Kenyan market – one of Africa's fastest growing economies with a diverse and resilient economic base, as the largest economy in East Africa it serves as a gateway to a regional market of over 450 million people. The country is a leader in renewable energy, with over 90% of its electricity coming from renewable sources such as geothermal, wind and solar power. In addition, its growing youth population places high demand on quality education and skills development. With Scotland's globally respected higher education institutions and training providers, opportunities are abundant for leveraging talent in a pool primed for innovation. Frazer Lang, Chief Executive at SABA, added: 'We are pleased to be organising this trade mission to Kenya, a country with immense potential and a shared vision for sustainable growth. This mission represents a significant step towards strengthening our economic ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration. Scottish businesses can not only drive their international growth but contribute to transformative changes in one of Africa's most vibrant markets. Our thanks go to the Scottish Government for supporting SABA to help Scottish businesses in this market.' Any Kenyan businesses interested in meeting with the Scottish delegation from the aforementioned sectors are encouraged to get directly in touch with the team from SABA, along with those interested in sponsoring or partnering with SABA. For more information, click here ( Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA). For more information, please contact: Frazer Lang Chief Executive Scottish Africa Business Association E: Seona Shand Chief Operating Officer Scottish Africa Business Association E: About the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA): SABA is the preeminent non-political, Africa focussed, members trade organisation with an unrivalled board of experienced directors which promotes trade, investment and knowledge sharing between Scotland's world class expertise and Africa's priority sectors including energy, agriculture, the blue economy, healthcare, skills training and education by leveraging extensive commercial, trade, political and government contacts across Scotland and Africa. As part of this, our team organises private meetings, round tables, seminars, conferences, global trade missions and offers market research, intelligence sharing and consultancy services.
Zawya
18-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Scottish Africa Business Association Launches SABA Briefings to Equip Scottish Businesses with Success in African Markets
The Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) ( is launching SABA Briefings, a new initiative designed to equip Scottish businesses with the tools, information and support to successfully enter and thrive in African markets. The SABA Briefings will also serve as a platform for African businesses to better understand and explore the expertise and innovation offered by Scottish companies. Since Africa presents vast opportunities across many sectors, SABA Briefings will be a valuable resource for businesses looking to expand globally. The series will cover key topics such as accessing support from UK Export Finance (UKEF) – helping businesses de-risk investment and access finance for international projects; opportunities in specific sectors – nailing growth sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, blue economy&maritime and education&skills training, so that the capabilities of companies are aligned with demand. In addition, discussions around overcoming financial and regulatory challenges, providing guidance on management of foreign exchange, taxation and compliance, local content requirements and employment quotas as well as market entry strategies giving insights on securing good local partners or agents, deal structuring and the governance and bureaucracy. In order to ensure the success and viability of this monthly series of briefings, SABA is actively looking for sponsorship from businesses keen on being at the forefront of helping support Scottish-African trade relationships. Sponsoring the SABA Briefings presents a unique opportunity for companies to position themselves as leaders of international business with access to high-quality networks and market intelligence firsthand. 'Scottish businesses often come to us with the same pressing questions – How do we find the right local partners? What funding is available? How do we navigate regulations and mitigate risks? With the SABA Briefings, we're bringing the experts to the table to get straight to the answers. This series will cut through the noise and give businesses the practical insights they need to take action and succeed in African markets' said Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer at SABA. "With the support of our sponsors and partners, SABA Briefings will become a driver of trade and investment, creating tangible business opportunities between Scotland and Africa.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Scottish African Business Association. For more information, please contact: Frazer Lang Chief Executive Scottish Africa Business Association E: Seona Shand Chief Operating Officer Scottish Africa Business Association E: About the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA): SABA is the preeminent non-political, Africa focussed, members trade organisation with an unrivalled board of experienced directors which promotes trade, investment and knowledge sharing between Scotland's world class expertise and Africa's priority sectors including energy, agriculture, the blue economy, healthcare, skills training and education by leveraging extensive commercial, trade, political and government contacts across Scotland and Africa. As part of this, our team organises private meetings, round tables, seminars, conferences, global trade missions and offers market research, intelligence sharing and consultancy services.
