Next up to our Connections Corner is Kgosie Matthews, who started Valhalla Capital Partners in 2021 to explore business opportunities in diverse sectors such as water and energy. With a multidisciplinary background, a Harvard education, and extensive experience in diverse and challenging roles across the United States, England, and Africa, Matthews brings invaluable expertise to drive EPSE’s international expansion. EPSE and Valhalla Capital Partners signed a Joint Venture Agreement in September 2024 regarding operations in Africa.
Africa’s search for sustainable water solutions with international partners
As Africa grapples with industrial water challenges, the continent is increasingly looking towards international partnerships for innovative and sustainable solutions. Water scarcity and pollution are pressing issues, particularly in industrial sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, where access to clean water and efficient water management is essential. Local resources and infrastructure often fall short of meeting the demands, prompting African countries to collaborate with international partners who bring advanced technology and expertise to the table.
Water treatment in the heart of sustainability
One area where international cooperation is proving invaluable is in the implementation of advanced water treatment technologies. European companies, like EPSE, are leading the way in offering environmentally friendly, scalable water treatment methods that can be tailored to African conditions. According to Matthews, Finnish companies are taking an increasingly positive role in different sectors of economies across the African continent, and this will lead to increased opportunities and technology transfer and job creation. These partnerships not only address immediate water challenges but also focus on building local capacity through knowledge transfer and technical training, allowing African industries to manage water resources sustainably in the long run. By forming alliances with technology providers, African industries can accelerate the adoption of efficient water recycling and pollution control practices, turning water challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth and resilience. Through these efforts, African countries are not only enhancing their industrial sustainability but also setting a precedent for collaborative approaches to water management worldwide.
Becoming strategic with future challenges
Currently Matthews is focused on business development for Valhalla Capital Partners to become a strategic investment holding company with a strong focus on the growing African economy. According to Matthews, EPSE is a company that is critical to solving the issues affecting Water across Africa, as well as climate change and ESG goals. Matthews is currently visiting EPSE and Finland for the first time and has greatly enjoyed the experience – despite the harsh November weather.
Article was written by Anni Honkonen.