German Development Agency (GIZ)

The services delivered by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) draw on a wealth of regional and technical expertise and tried and tested management know-how. It supports the German government in achieving its objectives in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. It is also engaged in international education work around the globe. The GIZ operates in many fields: economic development and employment promotion; governance and democracy; security, reconstruction, peacebuilding and civil conflict transformation; food security, health and basic education; and environmental protection, resource conservation and climate change mitigation. They also support partners with management and logistical services, and act as an intermediary, balancing diverse interests in sensitive contexts.

Germany’s international cooperation has promoted political and economic integration at the regional level in Africa. GIZ provides advisory services to the African Union, the regional economic communities and other institutions such as river basin commissions. With its focus on the priority areas of peace and security, good governance, infrastructure and the promotion of agriculture, Germany’s international cooperation programmes support the priorities set by the African Union Commission (AUC). GIZ’s services include institutional capacity development and support for transnational policy dialogues. The development of the Pan-African University (PAU) is a particular priority for the AUC and Germany alike.