In January 2026, the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA), supported by the Scottish Government, will lead a trade mission to Kenya and Zanzibar. The mission will bring together Scottish businesses, universities and institutions eager to explore opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
The trip comes at a time when Eastern Africa is not only accelerating its economic growth but also actively seeking international partnerships in sectors where Scotland excels. From renewable energy and the digital economy to food systems, education and skills training, maritime and aquaculture, the mission is designed to highlight Scotland’s strengths while answering real demand from African markets.
Why Eastern Africa, Why Now?
Kenya and Tanzania are two of the most dynamic economies in Africa, with young, ambitious populations and governments focused on long-term development.
Kenya has established itself as East Africa’s financial and innovation hub, with world-leading advancements in fintech, renewable energy and digital services. Its Vision 2030 development blueprint aligns closely with Scotland’s capabilities, particularly in renewables, maritime training, digital innovation and sustainable food systems.
Tanzania is experiencing rapid growth, with an economy underpinned by natural resources, agriculture and tourism. Its semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar is pursuing an ambitious development strategy, including a growing focus on renewable energy, the blue economy and education reform.
For Scotland, this is a prime opportunity to enter markets where demand is rising, investment climates are improving and long-term partnerships are welcomed.
Sectors at the Heart of the Mission
The trade mission has been carefully structured to ensure maximum impact for Scottish participants. The focus sectors have been chosen not only because they are national strengths, but because they align with the ambitions of our African partners.
Education & Skills Training
Both countries are investing in upskilling their young populations to meet the demands of emerging industries. Scotland’s strong education sector — from vocational training to higher education — can deliver solutions in technical training, digital learning and capacity-building. Partnerships here have the power to create lasting impact for generations.
Renewable Energy & Energy Transition
Eastern Africa is investing heavily in renewable energy to meet rising demand while addressing climate change. Kenya already generates more than 80% of its electricity from renewables, while Tanzania and Zanzibar are scaling up wind, solar and hydro projects. Scotland’s expertise in offshore wind, marine energy and just transition planning positions us as a valuable partner in this transformation.
Digital Economy
Kenya is already known as “Silicon Savannah,” with a thriving tech ecosystem and global leadership in mobile banking and fintech. Tanzania is following closely, with growing investment in digital services, e-commerce and mobile technology. Scotland’s expertise in data science, fintech, cyber security and digital learning creates clear pathways for partnership. From enabling smarter supply chains to supporting e-health and digital education, collaboration in this space can have transformative results.
Maritime & Ports
With long coastlines and rapidly expanding ports, maritime development is a national priority for both Kenya and Tanzania. Zanzibar, in particular, is seeking to position itself as a strategic hub for shipping and logistics in the region. Scotland’s expertise in port management, shipbuilding, and maritime safety offers clear opportunities for collaboration. From modernising infrastructure to sharing best practice in training and operations, there is strong potential for Scottish companies to play a role in shaping the region’s growing maritime sector.
Blue Economy
Beyond shipping, the blue economy is becoming central to East Africa’s long-term growth strategies. This encompasses fishing, aquaculture, food and drink industries linked to the sea, as well as emerging areas such as water desalination and marine biotechnology. With its own global reputation for sustainable seafood, aquaculture innovation, and advanced water management technologies, Scotland is well placed to contribute. The chance to connect with policymakers and private sector leaders in Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam will provide delegates with valuable insights into how Scottish expertise can support food security, sustainable resource use, and resilient coastal economies.
The Benefits of Attending
For Scottish businesses, this mission offers far more than a standard overseas visit. It is a platform to:
Connect with decision-makers – Delegates will meet with ministers, policymakers and leading private sector representatives, opening doors that would otherwise take years to access.
Build long-term partnerships – The programme is designed to create genuine business opportunities and collaborations, not just introductions.
Gain market insights – Through briefings, roundtables and site visits, delegates will gain first-hand understanding of how to do business in these markets, including regulatory environments, cultural approaches and consumer needs.
Showcase Scottish innovation – By joining as a collective, Scotland’s strengths will be amplified, positioning our businesses and institutions as serious, long-term partners.
More Than Business: Building Relationships
Trade missions are about more than commercial gain. They are about building trust, respect and understanding between nations. Scotland and Eastern Africa already share deep ties — from students and academics to diaspora communities and cultural exchanges. This mission builds on those foundations, creating new opportunities that are as much about people as they are about business.
Delegates can expect moments that go beyond boardrooms and roundtables: connecting with local leaders, cultural experiences and informal networking opportunities that often spark the most meaningful connections. For Scotland to succeed globally, we must look beyond traditional markets and engage with regions that will define the future of trade and investment. Eastern Africa is one of those regions.
Visit africascot.com/events-1 for more information and to book your place(s).
