enEnglisch
Dirk Niebel
Dear Prof. Dr. Otto, I value your commitment to ‘Cotton made in Africa’ extremely highly. You were one of the first people to recognise the opportunities for the German business community that lie in our neighbouring continent of Africa. You are a pioneer and have invested in Africa and its people in the area of agriculture which is so central to life there.
At the same time, you are committed to sustainable development – and success has proven you right: thanks to the Cotton made in Africa initiative, the incomes of some 20,000 farming families in Benin have risen considerably, the region is developing, children are going to school and healthcare is being provided – to mention just a few examples.
I believe this is precisely the type of impact the German business community can have in Africa through its commitment: it benefits the company and, at the same time, benefits the people there and the national economies in Africa that collect tax revenue allowing them to provide state services: a win-win for everyone. I would like many other companies to follow your great lead − and I personally support your endeavours, as we need a lot more of this type of involvement.
In the light of the above, I send you my warmest congratulations on your 70th birthday, together with my very best wishes for your health, happiness and success!
Yours,
Dirk Niebel