Close to 60 German-based and local companies showcased their products and services at the first Germany-Africa Trade Fair last week. Over 2,000 investors from various African countries were in attendance looking for a potential business partner. Organised by Trade & Fairs Group (TFC) and German Embassy the event took place at Skylight Hotel, Africa Avenue (Bole Road). According to them, financing projects and leasing machines for agro-processing are tabled for discussion with World Bank, IMF, and the German KfW Bank representatives. The event aims to encourage trade, business and investment and provide a platform for industries in African countries to develop relationships with Germany, with organisers hoping to host it annually with plans to address problems in education systems in Africa particularly educational institutions. Onur Yel, a representative from the German Embassy said the Ethiopian government should come up with an investor-friendly framework that can allow foreign currency circulation.