U.S.- Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission
Informational Webinar
U.S.-Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission
Informational Webinar
📅 Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
🕚 Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Central Time)
📍 Location: Norway House, 913 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
🌐 Hosted by: Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies (MNIHAS)
Join us for an engaging informational webinar introducing the upcoming U.S.-Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission, scheduled for May 28–31, 2025. This webinar will provide a detailed overview of the mission’s goals, priority sectors, and how businesses, investors, and diaspora leaders can get involved.
H.E. Mohamed Said Doualeh
“The Republic of Djibouti, under the leadership of His Excellency President Ismail Omar Guelleh, is committed to deepening economic partnerships with the United States. We welcome American companies and diaspora entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities across key sectors. Djibouti is not only a gateway to East Africa, but also a strategic hub for innovation, logistics, and regional development. This mission represents an important step toward building long-term prosperity and mutual cooperation.”
— Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh
Permanent Representative of the Republic of Djibouti to the United Nations and the Ambassador of the Republic of Djibouti to the United States
“This trade mission is a unique opportunity to connect Minnesota’s business community and East African diaspora with Djibouti’s fast growing economy. Under the leadership of the Embassy of the Republic of Djibouti in Washington, D.C., and with strong local support, we are fostering meaningful partnerships and investment. Djibouti is open for business—and Minnesotans are ready to lead.”
— Joseph Grødahl, J.D.
Honorary Consul of the Republic of Djibouti in Minnesota
🔍 What You’ll learn: U.S.-Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission (May 28–31, 2025)
🌐 Explore Strategic Sectors in the Republic of Djibouti
Gain insight into high-potential industries including transport & logistics, renewable energy, information technology, real estate, tourism, agriculture, financial services, and medical tourism.
🚢 Djibouti – Gateway to East Africa
Understand Djibouti’s unique position as a regional trade and logistics hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Learn how U.S. companies can expand into East Africa through Djibouti’s ports and free trade zones.
🏛️ State-Level Trade Priorities
Learn about Minnesota’s global trade strategy and explore trade and investment priorities from Ohio, Washington, and other states looking to strengthen economic ties with East Africa.
🤝 Business Matchmaking & High-Level Engagements
Participate in curated B2B and B2G meetings, site visits to critical infrastructure like the Port of Djibouti and Djibouti Free Trade Zone, and exclusive networking with government officials and business leaders.
🌍 Empowering the Diaspora
Engage with East African diaspora business leaders—especially from Minnesota, Ohio, and Washington—to lead investment efforts and development partnerships in Djibouti.
🏙️ Sister City Partnerships
Discover emerging Sister City initiatives connecting U.S. and Djiboutian municipalities to promote long-term cooperation in areas such as trade, education, and cultural exchange.
🤲 Deepen U.S.-Djibouti Relations
Be part of a mission aimed at strengthening economic, and cultural ties—supported by diaspora communities and forward-looking American businesses.
🎤 Speakers & Presenters:
Gabrielle Gerbaud
Executive Director, Minnesota Trade Office
Rep. Samakab Hussein
Minnesota State Representative
Rep. Cedrick Frazier, J.D.
Minnesota State Representative
Ibrahima Sow, MBA
Executive Director, Ohio State New African Immigrants Commission
Michael Schadek
Director of Regional Partnerships at City of Columbus, Mayor's Office
Sen. Michele Reynolds
Ohio State Senator
Who Should Attend:
Business owners, investors, diaspora leaders, government officials, nonprofit organizations, students, and professionals interested in U.S.–Africa economic relations—especially those exploring opportunities in Djibouti and East Africa. The mission welcomes anyone looking to expand globally, build partnerships, and engage in cross-sector collaboration.
🤝 Get Involved:
🌍 U.S.–Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission: Your Gateway to Djibouti and East Africa: There are many ways to get involved:
📅 Attend the Webinar: Join us on April 17, 2025 at Norway House or online to learn more about the mission and opportunities in Djibouti.
✈️ Join the Mission: Travel to Djibouti in May 2025 to explore business and investment opportunities in this strategic East African gateway.
🤝 Partner or Sponsor: Support the mission and gain visibility across U.S.–East Africa business networks.
📢 Showcase Your Business: Present your products or services to international partners and investors.
🔁 Engage Year-Round: Take part in local workshops and post-mission activities to stay connected and build momentum.
🔗 Learn more: tradehubdjibouti.com | mnihas.org/trademission
📧 Contact: [email protected]
