The Presidency of Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) hosted a promotional event for the “Africa Yearbook 2023” in Ankara on Wednesday, underscoring the significance of Türkiye-Africa relations.
Launched in 2021, the Africa Yearbook chronicles major developments in Africa and Türkiye’s relations with the continent. The 2023 edition examines political, military, economic, environmental, and cultural events of the year, offering insights into Africa’s global role and potential, according to YTB.
Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Turan highlighted the value of bilateral relations, sharing that high-level African delegations are expected to visit Türkiye soon. With Africa’s youthful population and abundant resources, he noted its critical market potential amidst rising global competition. Turan added that Türkiye’s approach in Africa emphasizes mutual respect and partnership, distinguishing it from other nations.
He also pointed out that Türkiye’s win-win policies with African nations contrast with other countries’ unilateral approaches, and he commended African countries for their support of Palestine. Currently, Türkiye has 38 embassies across Africa, he added.
Deputy Culture and Tourism Minister Serdar Çam remarked on Türkiye’s ongoing efforts in Africa, as the continent reaches new global influence. YTB Chairman Abdullah Eren stated that the yearbook’s content quality improves annually and that additional programs, beyond existing scholarships, are being explored.
Professor Soyalp Tamçelik, the yearbook’s editor, noted Africa’s growing importance in international relations, with global actors increasingly interested in the continent.
Türkiye has expanded its influence in Africa through defense agreements with countries like Somalia, Libya, and Nigeria, leading to contracts for Turkish defense manufacturers, particularly for its drones. These drones have been deployed in Chad, Togo, and other nations.
Türkiye is also extending its reach into Africa’s energy sector, with planned oil and gas explorations off the Somali coast and interest in Niger’s uranium resources. Relations with Niger have strengthened following its 2023 coup, and high-level Turkish officials recently visited Niamey.
Türkiye’s reputation as a reliable partner has bolstered demand for Turkish construction projects across Africa, where Turkish companies took on projects valued at $85.5 billion in 2023. Turkish Airlines, which operates in 62 African destinations, and educational initiatives such as the Maarif Foundation’s 140 schools also contribute to Türkiye’s soft power in the region. The Diyanet and TRT are further enhancing Türkiye’s influence through religious and media outreach across Africa.
