# Türkiye’s diplomatic approach to Africa’s security challenges

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2025/05/turkiyes-diplomatic-approach-to-africas-security-challenges/
- Published: 2025-05-27T11:26:23+01:00
- Author: Eray Yükseloğlu

Over the past decade, Türkiye has grown into one of Africa’s most active and reliable
partners, not only in trade but also in diplomacy and defence. As someone leading
a Turkish defence manufacturing company with deep roots in the African continent,
I’ve seen this transformation up close.

We are proud to contribute to this growing partnership through delivering reliable
military and police gear and building trust.

**Türkiye’s diplomatic model**

Türkiye’s foreign policy in Africa follows a distinct path compared to traditional
partners. It focuses on building practical cooperation.

Since launching its “Opening to Africa” policy in 2005, Türkiye has steadily expanded
its presence on the continent. The progress has been measurable.

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 * 44 Turkish embassies now operate across the African continent (up from just 12
   in 2009).
 * 30+ African embassies are now open in Ankara, a sign of mutual investment and
   trust.
 * The Turkish-African Partnership Summits, held every few years, set clear goals
   in sectors like defence, education, health, and infrastructure.

When we sit down with a Ministry of Defence or a National Police Force in an African
country, we’re there to understand realities, operational needs, logistical limits,
and expectations for local capacity building.

This is Türkiye’s strength: it combines diplomacy with business in a way that serves
development, not dependency. That’s what makes long-term partnerships possible, 
and that’s why African institutions come back to Turkish companies when trust and
results matter most.

We’ve learned that success in Africa is about presence and shared purpose. And I
believe Türkiye, through companies like ours, is one of the few nations truly committed
to that path.

In the coming years, as the continent continues to shape global trends in security,
energy, and trade, this approach will only grow in importance. My advice to fellow
business leaders: invest in understanding and operate with consistency. That’s how
you earn a seat at the table and how you stay there.

![](https://www.military.africa/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/20250527_112239-1024x578.
png)

**Balancing business and diplomacy in African defence**

As CEO of a company focused on uniforms, protective gear, and tactical equipment,
I’ve learned that the best business relationships in Africa are built on diplomatic
understanding.

 * Understand local climate, missions, and terrain
 * Offer flexible manufacturing and logistics options
 * Build durable relationships, not just contracts

Türkiye’s success in African defence markets is also tied to education and technology
sharing.

**Key numbers: Türkiye-Africa defence snapshot**

(Source: Turkish Exporters Assembly, Anadolu Agency)

 * $650 million: Türkiye’s defence and aviation exports to Africa (2023)
 * Over 30% growth in Turkish textile exports to African security forces
 * Top African buyers: Algeria, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Morocco, and Rwanda
 * Most demanded products: Tactical uniforms, bulletproof vests, helmets, drones

Let me share a few real examples from countries where we operated:

**In countries like Chad, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo,** we’ve 
built long-term partnerships by listening carefully to local needs and adapting 
to each country’s specific environment and operational challenges. From harsh climates
to complex logistics, our focus has always been on consistency, responsiveness, 
and trust.

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Turkish companies are well-positioned to continue offering exactly that, and [**Raff Military Textile**](https://www.raff.com.tr/)
will proudly remain part of that mission.

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