SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, members of the Minnesota House Workforce and Labor Development Committee, Reps. Samakab Hussein (DFL-Saint Paul) and Cedrick Frazier (DFL-New Hope) were proud to speak at an informational webinar with the Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies (MNIHAS) on the upcoming U.S.-Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission planned for late May.
“This trade mission is a unique opportunity to connect Minnesota's business community and East African diaspora with Djibouti's fast-growing economy. Under the leadership of the Embassy of the Republic of Djibouti in Washington, D.C., and with strong local support, we are fostering meaningful partnerships and investment. Djibouti is open for business—and Minnesota is ready to lead” acknowledged Representatives Samakab Hussein (DFL-Saint Paul) and Cedrick Frazier (DFL-New Hope). “As legislators representing a state with one of the largest East African diaspora populations in the nation, we understand that economic partnerships abroad create jobs and opportunities at home. This partnership represents the type of global diplomacy our country truly needs—not built on confrontational tariffs and economic bullying, but on mutual respect and shared prosperity. While the current Trump/Musk administration continues to rely on punitive trade measures that ultimately harm American businesses and workers, Minnesota is charting a different course. Our focus is on sustainable partnerships that genuinely benefit workers and businesses, fostering a Minnesota where a strong economy and global trade can flourish together.”
The Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies (MNIHAS), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Djibouti in Washington, D.C., is organizing a U.S. business delegation to explore exceptional trade, investment, and partnership opportunities in East Africa’s strategic gateway—the Republic of Djibouti.
The U.S.-Djibouti Trade Mission seeks to forge strong business partnerships between U.S. and Djibouti companies, establishing official economic ties and expanding market access for U.S. businesses. This initiative positions U.S. companies to access East Africa’s 400-million-consumer market through Djibouti’s strategic location.
The mission also connects U.S. businesses and African diaspora-led enterprises—primarily from Minnesota, Ohio, and Washington—with emerging opportunities in Djibouti. The delegation will enhance the capacity of diaspora businesses to expand into international markets, establish strategic alliances, and drive economic development.
“We are excited to connect U.S. businesses and institutions with emerging opportunities in Djibouti and East Africa,” said Mohamed Ismail, Executive Director of MNIHAS. “This mission will open new doors for trade, innovation, and strategic cooperation, while also supporting diaspora entrepreneurs and American companies working in collaboration with U.S. states and embassies.”
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