GeSI to Participate in the 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum in Brussels

GeSI is pleased to contribute to the 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum in Brussels, where the Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Platform (AERAP) is convening policymakers, scientists, investors, and international organisations under the theme “Science Collaboration for Shared Futures.” The Forum is positioned as a platform to strengthen Africa–Europe partnership through science, technology, and innovation at a time when the European Union is preparing its next Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034.  

The programme brings together several strategic priorities, including AI, digital public infrastructure, research infrastructures, capital markets for science and technology, global health, agriculture, food security, and quantum computing. Together, these themes reflect a wider effort to connect research capacity, policy alignment, and investment across both continents in a more coordinated and implementation-oriented way.  

GeSI is pleased to bring two of our members to the discussion. Eugenio Longo, Sustainability Director, TCS Europe, will participate in the session “Advancing Shared Research Capacity for Science.” The discussion will focus on Africa–Europe collaboration on AI and quantum computing, digital public infrastructure, and research infrastructures, with an emphasis on building connected and inclusive research ecosystems.  

Diane Mievis, Director, Government Affairs at Cisco and Head of EU Telecoms, Sustainability & Trade Policy, will join the session “Capital Markets for Science and Technology for Africa.” That discussion will explore how public and private investment can better support research, innovation, and infrastructure, highlighting the importance of finance in turning scientific ambition into scalable outcomes.  

These two contributions speak directly to issues that are becoming increasingly central to Africa–Europe cooperation: how to build stronger digital and research ecosystems, and how to mobilise the capital needed to move from innovation to implementation. In that context, GeSI’s participation helps bring practical industry perspectives into a broader cross-continental dialogue on science collaboration, digital transformation, and sustainable development.  

GeSI looks forward to engaging with partners in Brussels and contributing to conversations that strengthen cooperation between Africa and Europe through science, innovation, and purposeful digital transformation.