Africa today accounts for only a small share of Sweden’s exports – something Business Sweden aims to change by opening doors for more Swedish companies.

Swedish companies play an important role as West Africa modernises its public transport systems. Sustainable transport solutions create local societal benefits while offering new growth opportunities for Sweden. In West Africa, Business Sweden is driving infrastructure projects focused on public transport – a key element in reducing emissions, creating jobs and making cities more accessible. One earlier initiative was carried out in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where a feasibility study, conducted by Team Sweden actors coordinated by Business Sweden, showed that Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) solutions compatible with biofuel from agricultural waste were the most sustainable option.

“USE SWEDEN’S WORLD‑LEADING EXPERTISE”

“Because agriculture is largely driven by women, we not only improve the environment but also strengthen women’s economic independence. And Sweden and Swedish companies are far ahead in biofuels – so why not use that expertise to contribute in Côte d’Ivoire?” says Anthonia Adenaya Huard, Business Sweden’s Regional Manager for North and West Africa.

Team Sweden, led by Business Sweden, contributed financing. Scania was commissioned to deliver 450 buses compatible with biodiesel to Abidjan. The project later attracted financing from international partners such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM‑SIZED ENTERPRISES

The same model is now being applied in Lagos, Nigeria, where rapid urbanisation demands scalable and efficient transport solutions. A feasibility study showed that biogas buses match local conditions and that municipal waste has been identified as a suitable energy source. Business Sweden is now exploring how Swedish and African municipalities can be connected to exchange knowledge on waste management and value creation through the bioeconomy. In spring 2025, an agreement was signed for the delivery of 2,000 biogas buses from Scania. The participation of smaller companies is essential for the success of these projects.

“It is the small and medium‑sized enterprises that hold the deep expertise in biofuels,” says Anthonia Adenaya Huard. “Large companies play a stabilising role, but to create a strong whole, the smaller ones are needed. I want to encourage SMEs not to see Africa as a risk – but as an opportunity. Business Sweden is already on the ground; we know the key stakeholders, the market challenges and how to get things right from the start.”