Turkey has emerged as an important economic partner for African countries, with trade between the two countries increasing from $5.4 billion in 2003 to more than $40 billion today. Turkish contractors have completed nearly $100 billion of projects across the continent in sectors spanning infrastructure, energy, transportation and housing. Türkiye’s direct investment in Africa has also surged from $100 million in 2003 to more than $10 billion. Building on these strengthened ties, Turkey recently formalized its partnership with four African countries through Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) covering trade, investment, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
South Africa – Memorandum on Free Zones
Turkey and South Africa signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in free zones between the ministries of trade at the Bilateral National Commission meeting on October 15. The agreement focuses on developing special economic zones in South Africa by leveraging Turkey’s experience with successful zone models. The aim is to attract investment, boost manufacturing and build a joint export pipeline. In parallel, the two sides signed a joint declaration establishing the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO). The MoU forms part of South Africa’s broader industrialization strategy, with Turkey providing technical expertise and support for zone development and investment promotion.
Libya – Memorandum of Understanding on Contract Claims and Infrastructure
On October 16, Türkiye and Libya signed two memoranda of understanding covering contract credits and future infrastructure projects. The agreement aims to facilitate recovery of overdue payments to Turkish contractors and enable their participation in future development projects. Countries also reaffirmed plans to increase trade in areas such as hydrocarbons, renewable energy, mining, banking and healthcare. Joint mechanisms, including JETCO, will guide cooperation and strengthen bilateral economic relations as stability in Libya improves.
The Gambia – Memorandum of Understanding on Renewable Energy
Türkiye and Gambia signed a memorandum of understanding on renewable energy cooperation on October 17th. The agreement, signed by Turkey’s Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar and Gambia’s Energy Minister Nani Jwala, aims to develop joint projects in hydropower, solar power and wind power, and foster both public and private investment. The MoU will support Gambia’s transition to renewable energy, strengthen energy security and strengthen Turkey’s technological footprint in Africa. Turkey provides expertise in power generation, transmission, distribution, energy savings and efficiency. Key projects include a proposed 100 MW solar park at Jala Soma.
Ethiopia – Memorandum of Understanding on Trade, Investment and Industrial Cooperation
The Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (ECCSA) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Turkish Chamber of Commerce and Industry on October 18 to strengthen trade, investment and industrial cooperation. The agreement aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing and co-investment efforts between companies, and support trade missions, exhibitions and investment forums. This is part of ECCSA’s strategy to expand Ethiopia’s trade relations, attract foreign investment, and build a platform for sustainable economic development and strengthened bilateral cooperation with Turkey.
