The Finnish Southern Africa Cooperation Institute (FSAI) was officially inaugurated in Windhoek on 9–10 October 2025. The distinguished event gathered representatives from government, academia, the church, and partner institutions from Finland and across Southern Africa, with strong support from the Embassy of Finland in Windhoek. FSAI was warmly welcomed, and participants emphasized that there is a clear and timely need for an institute dedicated to broad-based cooperation — not only in Namibia but across the wider Southern African region. The Institute was also proud to host a high-level panel by Historians without Borders, whose discussion explored the role of historical understanding in promoting dialogue and cooperation in the region. A special seminar on food security and desert agriculture complemented the opening, showcasing the Institute’s commitment to practical collaboration. The speeches and discussions reflected the depth of partnership between Finland and its Southern African counterparts — and highlighted the promising prospects for FSAI as a new platform for long-term regional cooperation

Bishop Teemu Laajasalo in conversation with FSAI’s founders and leadership.
The interview can be viewed below. With thanks to Satu Huttunen, Special Adviser to the Bishop of Helsinki, for the film.

https://fsai.fi/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Kopio-tiedostosta-FSAI_eng.mov

Memories from Windhoek – Highlights from FSAI’s Opening Days.
The video can be viewed below.

https://fsai.fi/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Windhoek_Oct2025.mov