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First African-European Rail Dialogue to Debut at InnoTrans 2026
Inaugural EU-Africa Transport Dialogue at InnoTrans on September 23 will gather African governments, rail authorities and European industry for cooperation
Main source: First African European Industry Dialogue on Railways to be held at InnoTrans · By Rail Post Desk
The first African-European Industry Dialogue on Railways will take place at InnoTrans on September 23, 2026, according to railwaygazette.com. The event, formally named the EU-Africa Transport Dialogue, aims to bring together representatives from African governments, railway authorities, development partners and the European rail industry.
The dialogue is organised by a partnership that includes Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development, the German international co-operation agency GIZ, the Transformative Urban Mobility Initiative, the African Development Bank and DB ECO Group, the consultancy business of Germany’s national railway.
Participants will discuss opportunities for co-operation and knowledge exchange between the two continents. Key questions on the agenda include: what are the current strategic priorities of the European Union and Germany, and how will they shape rail partnerships with Africa? What is required to realise Africa’s railway transformation? And how can effective partnerships be established to achieve Africa’s vision for rail development?
The organisers describe the event as a unique platform to network with key decision-makers from one of the world’s fastest-growing transport markets. Attendees will gain first-hand insights into investment opportunities, strategic priorities and innovative technologies relevant to African rail development.
InnoTrans, the world’s largest trade fair for transport technology, will host the dialogue as part of its 2026 edition in Berlin. The session reflects growing interest in African rail markets, where urbanisation and economic growth are driving demand for new and upgraded railway infrastructure.
The African Development Bank’s involvement underscores the financial dimension of the dialogue, while DB ECO Group brings operational expertise from one of Europe’s largest railway operators. GIZ and the Transformative Urban Mobility Initiative contribute experience in sustainable transport planning and project implementation.
No further details on speakers or specific projects have been released. The dialogue is expected to set a precedent for regular exchanges between African and European rail stakeholders.