Erdoğan Urges Deeper Türkiye–Africa Partnership: A Strategic Shift at the 2025 Business Forum concludes

This article explores President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s vision for strengthening ties with Africa at the 2025 Türkiye–Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF) in Istanbul. From Turkey’s economic rise to collaboration frameworks, learn how Türkiye aims to position itself as Africa’s strategic ally.

Introduction: Türkiye and Africa’s Strategic Pivot

The 2025 Türkiye–Africa Business Forum marked a turning point in Turkey’s diplomatic and economic engagement with the continent. President Erdoğan’s call for a “deeper Türkiye–Africa partnership” underscores a strategic shift from transactional collaboration to a shared developmental vision. By framing ties with Africa as rooted in mutual respect and non-colonial solidarity, Türkiye positions itself as a critical partner for Africa’s growth.

Analysis: Türkiye’s Strategic Interests in Africa

Economic Synergy and Market Access

Türkiye’s economic clout—ranked 17th globally by nominal GDP (as of 2024) and 5th in Europe—aligns with Africa’s untapped potential in sectors like agriculture, energy, and digital innovation. Erdoğan emphasized Ankara’s role as an “economic bridge” connecting Africa to European markets, leveraging its established infrastructure and technology-driven industries.

Historical Context: From Symbolic Ties to Permanent Alliances

Erdoğan’s reference to declaring the “Year of Africa” in 2005—a symbolic gesture—highlights the evolution of Türkiye’s relationship. Today, the partnership spans public diplomacy, trade agreements, and sustainability initiatives, reflecting Ankara’s ambition to transition from a tourist destination to a long-term trade and investment hub.

Equality and Shared Prosperity

Distancing Türkiye from historical colonial ties, Erdoğan asserted, “We don’t have the guilt of colonialism,” positioning Turkey as a postcolonial nation embracing equitable collaboration. This narrative resonates with African countries seeking partners unburdened by exploitative histories.

Summary: Pillars of the Türkiye–Africa Partnership

The forum’s outcomes include MOUs in agriculture, green technology, and digital infrastructure. Key themes include mutual respect, economic parity, and co-creation of developmental projects. Türkiye’s “digitally integrated” ecosystem and Africa’s resource wealth form the partnership’s twin pillars.

Key Points: Türkiye’s Africa Strategy

1. Economic Confidence Through Transparency

Türkiye’s rise in the global GDP rankings (17th nominal, 12th PPP) reflects decades of fiscal discipline and industrial diversification. Erdoğan linked this success to Africa’s potential, urging investors to tap into the continent’s growing demand for tech and infrastructure.

2. Non-Colonial Framework for Collaboration

By rejecting the “legacy of colonialism,” Türkiye frames its partnership as a model for South-South cooperation. This approach aligns with African nations wary of Western economic dominance.

3. Sector-Specific Opportunities

Trade Minister Ömer Bolat outlined high-growth sectors:

• Agriculture: Türkiye’s agribusiness expertise complements Africa’s arable lands.
• Digitalization: Joint ventures in fintech and smart cities can address regional gaps.
• Green Energy: Türkiye’s solar expertise aligns with Africa’s renewable energy ambitions.

Practical Advice for Businesses

Leverage Türkiye’s Market Access

Exporters can use Türkiye’s EU agreements to scale African markets. For example, Turkish firms in construction or textiles can offer cost-effective solutions under Ankara’s “Made in Türkiye” branding.

Engage in Bilateral MOUs

Participating in memoranda of understanding signed at TABEF—such as joint infrastructure funds—provides access to regional networks and Turkey’s EU Single Market.

Prioritize Sustainability Initiatives

Africa’s focus on green transition aligns with Türkiye’s own eco-strategies. Investors may explore solar farms, waste management systems, or agri-processing technologies.

Points of Caution: Navigating Challenges

Geopolitical Vulnerabilities

Türkiye’s balancing act between NATO and multipolar alliances may affect long-term stability. African investors should monitor regional dynamics like the Syria or Ukraine conflicts.

Bureaucratic Hurdles

While Türkiye offers investor-friendly incentives, startup ecosystems in Africa face challenges like inconsistent regulations. Joint efforts to standardize trade protocols will be critical.

Comparison: Türkiye vs. Other Africa Partners

Unlike China’s infrastructure-for-loan model or EU’s aid-heavy approaches, Türkiye emphasizes knowledge transfer and SME collaboration. Its hybrid model—combining grants, low-interest loans, and technology sharing—targets sustainable growth over quick wins.

Legal Implications: Beyond Trade Agreements

Equality clauses in bilateral MOUs could shape dispute settlement mechanisms. For instance, arbitration panels under UNCITRAL rules ensure fair conflict resolution, reducing litigation risks. Legal experts should review Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria tied to funding conditions.

Conclusion: A New Era of African-Türkiye Relations

The 2025 forum signals Türkiye’s ambition to transcend historical roles and co-lead Africa’s development. With Ankara’s infrastructure, Africa’s resources, and a shared focus on equity, the partnership could redefine global South alliances in the 21st century.

FAQ: Key Questions Answered

Q: How many times has Erdoğan visited Africa?

A: The President stated he has visited Africa “more than 50 times,” reflecting decades of personal engagement with leaders and communities.

Q: What sectors are prioritized in Türkiye-Africa deals?

A: Agriculture, digital technologies, green energy, and textiles, supported by Türkiye’s expertise in logistics and manufacturing.

Q: Can African startups benefit from Türkiye’s digital ecosystem?

A: Yes. Initiatives like e-governance platforms and cross-border fintech agreements could boost African digital inclusion.