The upcoming Djibouti Summit, scheduled for November 2-3, 2024, marks Turkey’s second Africa summit held on the continent, although this one is a ministerial event. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to visit Djibouti for this summit, emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations. This approach is seen as strategic, highlighting Turkey’s efforts to distinguish its initiatives from Western countries.
The gathering will focus on expanding Turkish-African cooperation. It will also review outcomes from the previous Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit held in Malabo from November 19-21, 2014, which centered on the theme “A New Model of Partnership to Enhance Sustainable Development and Integration.” The discussions will also explore new partnership opportunities with 14 African nations.
These discussions align with Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to faciliate a maritime dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, with Ethiopia aiming to lease access to Somaliland’s coastline. Officials acknowledge the mediation’s challenges, citing the lack of mutual trust, but hope for positive progress soon.
Türkiye’s influence in Africa has grown significantly, with trade multiplying nearly eight-fold in recent years. Following new agreements with Niger on mining and energy, Türkiye’s Mineral Research and Exploration authority now operates three gold fields in Niger, with security provided by local forces. Production at these sites is expected to begin by year’s end.
Competing with powers such as France, Russia, and China, Türkiye has provided defence equipment, including armed drones, to countries like Somalia and Ethiopia. These contributions have boosted regional stability, with Burkina Faso notably expanding its territorial control to 65% with Turkish support. Turkish officials highlight that these contributions are part of Türkiye’s broader efforts to strengthen “national capabilities” in Africa and support anti-terrorism measures.