The 14th edition of Africa Day, held in Ljubljana, focused on one of the most pressing but often overlooked global topics: natural resources and their role in sustainable development. The international conference, the centrepiece of this year’s observance, addressed the consequences of exploiting non-renewable natural resources—especially critical raw materials—in Africa and beyond.
As a long-standing partner of Africa Day, the Bled Strategic Forum supports such events to foster dialogue on global challenges that require shared responsibility and inclusive partnerships. Our collaboration highlights the Forum’s commitment to addressing key international issues through diplomacy, sustainability, and cooperation with global regions—including Africa.
In her opening remarks, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon underlined Slovenia’s strengthened engagement with Africa, shaped in part by its current role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. She emphasized the importance of partnership, investment in people, innovation, and climate resilience. “Africa is not a continent of conflict, but of opportunities,” she noted, highlighting Slovenia’s diplomatic presence through embassies in Addis Ababa, Algiers, and soon Rabat.
Minister Fajon later joined a high-level panel on the development potential of natural resources, moderated by Tanja Miškova, Special Envoy for Water Diplomacy. The panel featured prominent international voices, including Johan Borgstam (EU Special Representative for the Great Lakes), Marjeta Jager (European Commission), Bestine Kazadi Ditabala (DRC), and Sheila Khama (Chatham House).
With over 100 participants, including representatives from African countries and institutions, the conference also explored how natural resources can support peacebuilding. Speakers underscored the need for regional cooperation, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development approaches that engage youth and local communities.
On the eve of the conference, the Economic Forum brought together over 60 Slovenian companies and more than 20 representatives from African embassies. Discussions focused on digitalisation, smart infrastructure, e-government, healthcare, circular economy, and agri-tech—areas where Slovenian expertise can contribute to Africa’s sustainable growth.
Peter Japelj, Acting Director General for Economic and Public Diplomacy, stressed the importance of smart resource management and digital transparency, while Marjana Majerič from the Chamber of Commerce highlighted the need for new, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Africa Day concluded with a cultural reception and roundtable discussion on Art, Nature, and Sustainability, featuring Ethiopian photographer Aida Muluneh and experts from Chatham House and Slovenia. This creative dimension reaffirmed the event’s broader message: that sustainable development is not only about resources, but also about shared values, culture, and vision.