Turkey has emerged as a key economic partner for African countries: trade between the sides has grown from $5.4 billion in 2003 to over $40 billion today. Turkish contractors have completed nearly $100 billion in projects across the continent in sectors spanning infrastructure, energy, transport and housing. Direct Turkish investments in Africa have also surged from $100 million in 2003 to more than $10 billion. Building on these growing ties, Turkey recently formalized partnerships with four African nations through memoranda of understanding (MoUs) covering trade, investment, infrastructure and renewable energy.
South Africa – MoU on Free Zones
Turkey and South Africa have signed a MoU on cooperation in free zones between their trade ministries during a Bilateral National Commission meeting on October 15. The agreement focuses on developing South Africa’s special economic zones by leveraging Turkey’s experience with successful zone models. It aims to attract investment, boost manufacturing and build joint export pipelines. In parallel, both sides signed a joint declaration establishing a 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 – MoUs on Contracting Receivables and Infrastructure
On October 16, Turkey and Libya signed two MoUs covering contracting receivables and future infrastructure projects. The agreements aim to facilitate recovery of overdue payments to Turkish contractors and enable participation in upcoming development projects. The countries also reaffirmed plans to expand trade in sectors such as hydrocarbons, renewable energy, mining, banking and healthcare. Joint mechanisms, including JETCO, will guide cooperation, strengthening bilateral economic ties as Libya’s stability improves.
The Gambia – MoU on Renewable Energy
Turkey and The Gambia inked a MoU on renewable energy cooperation on October 17. Signed by Alparslan Bayraktar, Turkey’s Minister of Energy, and Nani Juwara, The Gambia’s Minister of Energy, the agreement aims to develop joint projects in hydroelectric, solar and wind power, encouraging both public and private sector investment. The MoU supports The Gambia’s transition to renewables, enhances energy security and strengthens Turkey’s technical footprint in Africa. Turkey will provide expertise in electricity generation, transmission, distribution, energy conservation and efficiency. Key projects include a proposed 100 MW solar park in Jarra Soma.
Ethiopia – MoU on Trade, Investment and Industrial Cooperation
The Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (ECCSA) signed a MoU with the Turkish Chamber of Commerce and Industry on October 18 to enhance trade, investment and industrial cooperation. The agreement aims to promote business-to-business linkages, knowledge sharing and joint investment initiatives, supporting trade missions, exhibitions and investment forums. It forms part of ECCSA’s strategy to expand Ethiopia’s trade relations and attract foreign investment, creating a platform for sustained economic development and strengthened bilateral cooperation with Turkey.