To encourage in particular small and medium- sized German companies to invest in and trade with the SADC region, SAFRI conducts themed events throughout the Federal Republic of Germany in conjunction with its supporting organisations, the Afrika- Verein (AV), the Federation of German Industries (BDI) and the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK). Such events provide an excellent opportunity for personal talks between German and African entrepreneurs, representatives of the SAFRI supporting organisations and representatives of the SADC member states and finance institutions.

High-profile events are also organised under Professor Jürgen E. Schrempp’s chairmanship. These events permit leaders of German business and industry either to establish and strengthen networks with Africa specialists or set up direct contacts with high-ranking African business and political representatives. The year after its foundation, for example, SAFRI organised the SAFRI World Bank Conference with James Wolfensohn in Stuttgart.

Each year the Afrika-Verein organises a business forum highlighting current issues, which attracts not only entrepreneurs but also high-ranking representatives from the worlds of politics, business and international organisations. Other activities organised by the Afrika-Verein include African trade and investment conferences, as well as regional Africa forums giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to exchange information on a half-yearly basis. Systematic analysis of business experiences are provided by surveys, e.g. on the topic of the business climate in Southern Africa. Consultation services are provided by individual country economists as well as the Afrika-Verein Business Development GmbH. The German Chambers of Industry and Commerce also set up a Southern Africa Regional Coordination Group with a view to exchanging information and networking.

SAFRI also provides a platform for – and supports – presentation events organised by the SADC member states in Germany.