At the Economic Summit in Johannesburg, the still rather small German Africa Community, in the presence of Robert Habeck, once again emphasized the immense potential of the continent.
Nevertheless, only 1 percent of German foreign investments go there.
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, interest has increased significantly.
Not only the Green Economics Minister hopes that green hydrogen from Africa will make the double jump: mastering the energy transition and finding alternatives to Russian gas.
But an engagement in Africa still carries high risks – even in South Africa, where constant power cuts and a government crisis are causing nervousness.
It is also questionable whether the African side is as interested in partnerships as has been stated.
Less than half of the participants at the summit come from Africa, and there are almost no representatives from francophone countries.
South Africa's President Ramaphosa canceled his speech and only sent his trade minister, who was struggling for influence.
Perhaps Germany needs Africa more than Africa needs Germany at the moment.