Türkiye in Africa 2025: 5 Strategic Areas Where Turkish Influence is Rapidly Growing

Türkiye has rapidly expanded its presence in Africa, leveraging a combination of economic, diplomatic, and cultural initiatives to build strong and strategic partnerships across the continent. Through ambitious foreign policy, trade expansion, and infrastructure investments, Türkiye has positioned itself as a key player in Africa’s economic and geopolitical landscape.

By focusing on trade, security, energy, and development projects, Türkiye is not only fostering bilateral relations but also offering an alternative to traditional global powers operating in Africa. As Turkish companies and institutions deepen their engagement, the impact of this growing partnership is becoming increasingly significant.

Here are five critical aspects of Türkiye’s expanding influence in Africa and why they matter for the future of the region.

1. A Strategic Alternative to the West

As African nations seek to diversify their international partnerships, Türkiye has emerged as an alternative to Western powers. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visits to over 30 African nations underscore Türkiye’s commitment to fostering diplomatic and economic ties.

Türkiye often presents its partnerships, emphasizing trust and sincerity. This approach has been particularly appealing to countries distancing themselves from European and American influence. Moreover, Türkiye’s non-interventionist stance on governance and human rights makes it a preferred partner for many African nations compared to the West’s more conditional approach.

“Choose quality, affordability, and reliability for your next project.”

2. Strengthening Defense and Security Ties

Türkiye has expanded its military cooperation with African nations. The Turkish government has signed defense agreements with Somalia, Libya, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, among others. These agreements allow Türkiye to supply military equipment, provide training programs, and strengthen security alliances.

One of Türkiye’s most sought-after exports in Africa is its military drones, such as the Bayraktar TB2. These drones have become critical assets in counterterrorism efforts and have been supplied to countries including Chad, Togo, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The affordability and reliability of Turkish military hardware make it an attractive choice for African governments aiming to enhance their defense capabilities without depending on Western suppliers.

3. Energy Exploration and Resource Investments

Türkiye is making strategic moves to secure access to Africa’s rich energy resources, particularly in oil, gas, and uranium. One of the latest developments is Türkiye’s plan to explore offshore oil and gas reserves in Somalia, replicating its ongoing energy operations in Libyan waters.

Additionally, Türkiye is reportedly interested in Niger’s uranium reserves, a critical resource for its Akkuyu nuclear power plant—Türkiye’s first nuclear facility, being built with Russian collaboration. Although Türkiye has denied such interests, its increasing diplomatic engagement with Niger’s military-led government suggests a growing energy agenda in the region.

“Choose quality, affordability, and reliability for your next project.”

4. Infrastructure and Economic Investments

Türkiye has solidified its reputation as a reliable construction and infrastructure partner in Africa. Turkish companies are involved in large-scale projects such as airports, roads, hospitals, and mosques, boosting local economies while strengthening Türkiye’s foothold in the region.

In 2023 alone, Turkish contractors executed $85.5 billion worth of infrastructure projects across Africa, covering sectors such as transportation, energy, and urban development. Notable projects include:

Mogadishu’s international airport, rebuilt with Turkish funding.
Highways and bridges connecting major African cities.
Hospital and health facility expansions across East and West Africa.

Furthermore, Turkish Airlines has significantly increased its presence, now flying to 62 destinations in Africa, making it one of the most connected airlines on the continent.

5. Expanding Cultural and Educational Influence

Beyond trade and defense, Türkiye is strengthening its soft power in Africa through education, media, and religious institutions. Türkiye’s Maarif Foundation operates 140 schools and institutions, educating over 17,000 African students. Additionally, 60,000 Africans are currently studying at Turkish universities, further solidifying Türkiye’s influence among future African leaders.

Türkiye’s media expansion in Africa is also noteworthy. Broadcasters like TRT have launched programs in French, Swahili, English, and Hausa, reaching a wider African audience. Moreover, Türkiye’s conservative social values align with many African societies, particularly in religious and family matters. The Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) has been funding mosque construction, religious education, and humanitarian projects across the continent.

Conclusion

Türkiye’s increasing engagement in Africa is more than just a diplomatic shift—it is a strategic realignment that is reshaping the continent’s economic, security, and cultural landscapes. With a strong focus on trade, infrastructure, and defense partnerships, Türkiye is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s development, offering diverse opportunities beyond traditional Western and Chinese influences.

As Türkiye strengthens its ties across Africa, businesses and investors stand to benefit from a growing network of trade agreements and infrastructure projects. Companies like Power International Export, specializing in wholesale construction and finishing materials, are at the forefront of this transformation, bridging Türkiye’s industrial expertise with Africa’s expanding markets.

With investments surging and partnerships deepening, Türkiye’s presence in Africa is not just an emerging trend—it’s a long-term commitment that will continue to redefine the continent’s economic future. Businesses seeking high-quality materials and reliable trade solutions can leverage this dynamic shift to expand and grow in a rapidly evolving market.

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Türkiye in Africa 2025: 5 Strategic Areas Where Turkish Influence is Rapidly Growing

Table of Contents

1. A Strategic Alternative to the West

2. Strengthening Defense and Security Ties

3. Energy Exploration and Resource Investments

4. Infrastructure and Economic Investments

5. Expanding Cultural and Educational Influence

Conclusion

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