Turkey is strengthening its influence in Africa, as France’s historical dominance fades
Turkey is increasingly expanding its presence in Africa through strategic investments in diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange, providing African nations with fresh partnerships that contrast with France’s colonial legacy. As France’s hold weakens due to shifting political and economic dynamics, Turkey’s win-win approach and respect for African sovereignty make it a preferred partner on the continent, indicating a potential shift in Africa’s global alliances.
Throughout history, Africa has been a battleground for influence among various global powers. In the past two decades, Turkey has emerged as a significant force on the continent, enhancing its influence through diplomatic, economic, military, and cultural channels. This development coincides with a period in which traditional colonial powers like France are seeing their influence wane, marking a shift in Africa-Turkey relations. This article examines the growth of Turkish presence in Africa, the factors behind France’s diminishing influence, and how Turkey is solidifying its foothold on the continent.
Historical Background: France’s Role in Africa
Starting in the 19th century, France established a vast colonial empire in Africa, especially in the western and northern regions, maintaining control over many countries on the continent for an extended period. Even after the colonial era ended, France attempted to retain economic, cultural, and military ties with these nations. France’s “Françafrique” policy represented an ongoing strategy to maintain economic and political influence over its former colonies. However, by the 21st century, both African leaders and citizens increasingly questioned this model, perceiving it as neo-colonialism, which has significantly eroded France’s influence in the region.
Turkey’s Engagement with Africa: Historical and Economic Drivers
Turkey’s African engagement began to accelerate in 2005 when it declared the “Year of Africa.” Since then, Turkey has pursued a comprehensive strategy to strengthen diplomatic ties, establishing embassies and increasing trade volume across the continent. Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and Yunus Emre Institute have played significant roles in Turkey’s soft power initiatives in Africa through projects in education, health, and cultural exchanges. Additionally, Turkish Airlines’ extensive network on the continent has boosted Turkey’s visibility and presence.
Economically, Turkey’s interest in Africa is largely driven by the continent’s growing infrastructure and energy project demands. Turkish construction firms have secured a strong presence by building roads, airports, ports, and housing projects in numerous African countries. By the 2020s, Turkey’s trade volume with Africa reached tens of billions of dollars, further anchoring its economic interests in the continent.
France’s Declining Influence: Political and Economic Factors
France’s diminishing influence in Africa stems from both internal and external dynamics. Many African nations are restructuring their policies to reduce reliance on France, while domestic pressures within France have led to reductions in aid and military support to the region. By the early 2020s, protests against French presence and a wave of military coups swept across countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, signaling not only a weakening of French influence but also a growing demand among Africans for local sovereignty.
In addition, the trade model and legacy of dependency France maintained are now increasingly seen as unsustainable and unjust by African nations. This shift has created a favorable environment for new actors like Turkey to establish more equitable, mutually beneficial relationships with African countries.
Turkey’s Strategic Moves in Africa
Turkey has been making significant strides in Africa, building influence across various domains:
- Diplomatic Investments and Military Alliances: Turkey has established a strong diplomatic network across Africa, increasing the number of embassies on the continent. Through its military presence in countries like Somalia and Libya, Turkey has also demonstrated a commitment to regional security and stability. Turkey’s military training base in Somalia is a prime example of its growing influence in Africa’s defense sector.
- Economic Partnerships and Investments: Turkey aims to enhance trade by pursuing Free Trade Agreements with African nations. Turkish companies are active across several sectors in Africa, including construction, energy, food, textiles, and healthcare. Turkish firms’ participation in large-scale infrastructure projects has further expanded Turkey’s economic impact in Africa.
- Cultural and Educational Cooperation: Turkey leverages cultural and educational partnerships to strengthen its influence in Africa. TİKA conducts education and healthcare projects in numerous African countries, while the Yunus Emre Institute promotes Turkish culture and language through cultural events and Turkish language courses.
- Inclusive and Win-Win Approach: Turkey’s emphasis on a win-win principle in its relations with African countries is one of its key strategies. Respecting the sovereignty of African nations, Turkey pursues partnerships based on shared interests, fostering a climate of trust across the continent.
Conclusion: A New Era on the Horizon?
Turkey’s growing presence in Africa signals the beginning of a new era for the continent. As former colonial powers like France see their influence decline, new actors like Turkey are making significant inroads, offering African nations alternative partnership opportunities. Turkey’s multi-dimensional and inclusive approach is well received across Africa, with African nations keen on deepening ties with Turkey.
In the coming years, Turkey is expected to further strengthen its presence and strategic partnerships in Africa. This process could offer Africa a unique opportunity to assert itself as a more independent and influential force on the global stage.
