Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to visit Djibouti next week for a Türkiye-Africa ministerial meeting aimed at boosting cooperation with the continent, according to Turkish foreign ministry officials.
This gathering, scheduled for November 2-3, will bring together representatives from 14 African countries to discuss the progress of Turkey’s African partnerships since a previous conference in 2021.
As a NATO member, Türkiye has expanded its African influence through trade, diplomatic support, and defence agreements, positioning itself as a competitor to powers like France, Russia, and China. The Djibouti meeting will also address Ankara’s efforts to mediate a coastal access dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, in addition to providing counterterrorism support across the region.
In recent months, Turkey signed mining and energy agreements with Niger, securing three gold mining fields set for production by year’s end. Turkey’s Mineral Research and Exploration Authority has bolstered its presence in Niger, collaborating with local security forces to ensure safety and operational continuity.
Turkey has provided drones and military training to several African nations, including Somalia and Burkina Faso, aiming to enhance national defence and control. Burkina Faso has reportedly doubled its control over state territories to 65% with Turkish drone support. However, on Tuesday, Tuareg rebels in Mali alleged that a Turkish drone strike resulted in eight deaths and 20 injuries.
