Turkey’s Foreign Policy Strategy in Africa in the Changing World Order

This article examines Turkey’s foreign policy strategy toward the African continent and its impact on regionalization processes. The evolution of Turkey’s engagement in Africa is analyzed, starting from the late 1990s with the development of the African Action Plan through the current phase of active diplomatic, economic, security, and cultural presence. It is revealed that Turkey employs a comprehensive approach by combining official diplomacy, economic cooperation, military collaboration, and soft power tools, which ensure its unique positioning among other global actors on the continent.Particular attention is paid to the analysis of key narratives through which Turkey constructs a positive image among African countries, notably emphasizing its lack of a colonial past and its orientation toward mutually beneficial partnerships. The study explores Turkey’s major mechanisms of influence, such as the expansion of diplomatic missions, intensification of trade and economic cooperation, establishment of military bases, the signing of security agreements, provision of humanitarian aid, and promotion of Turkish culture and education through relevant state and non-state institutions. The role of private companies and religious organizations in strengthening Turkey’s regional presence is also highlighted.The article concludes that Turkey seeks to establish itself as a long-term strategic partner to African countries while simultaneously reinforcing its economic, political, and security positions on the continent. However, the realization of these ambitions may face several challenges, including competition from other global and regional actors, internal political dynamics within Turkey, and instability in several African states. The prospects for further intensification of Turkey-Africa relations are outlined, along with the need to consider the complex nature of Turkey’s new African policy within the broader context of regional integration processes.