Türkiye and Africa: A growth story in the making

I recently attended the fifth Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF), organized by DEİK in Istanbul, and what struck me was the sheer energy in the room.

Leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators from both Türkiye and Africa gathered not just to sign agreements, but to envision the future.

And that future, unmistakably, is about growth.

Africa is rising.

Its cities are expanding, its markets are dynamic, and its young population is driving technological innovation at an unprecedented pace.

Türkiye is stepping into this narrative as a partner, ready to collaborate, invest, and grow alongside the continent.

The trade volume between Türkiye and Africa exceeded $37 billion in 2024, with Ankara aiming to reach $40 billion in 2025, according to Trade Minister Omer Bolat.

President Erdoğan captured the spirit of this partnership at TABEF:

"With its rapidly growing economy, dynamic investment environment, and central location at the heart of three continents, Türkiye’s doors are wide open to investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. We share our experience and expertise with a commitment to equality, mutual respect, and win-win principles."

Among the Turkish companies present, Albayrak Group also drew significant attention from African business leaders and bureaucrats.

Its diverse portfolio—from construction and logistics to media and international investments—resonated strongly with African participants looking for sustainable and experienced partners.

The group’s presence reflected Türkiye’s growing reputation as a trusted and capable ally in Africa’s development journey.

From infrastructure projects to digital initiatives, from energy collaboration to education partnerships, Türkiye and Africa are shaping a path toward sustainable growth.

Türkiye brings experience, innovation, and connectivity; Africa brings scale, ambition, and potential.

Together, these forces are transforming industries, opening opportunities, and redefining what international partnerships can achieve.

Growth, of course, is more than numbers.

It’s opportunity, prosperity, and futures broadened.

Türkiye and Africa are co-authoring a story of growth, ambition, and shared success

— and the chapters to come promise to be extraordinary.