Turkish companies have implemented infrastructure and superstructure projects in Africa worth tens of billions of dollars, cementing their rapid expansion on the continent and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.
According to the Council for Foreign Economic Relations of Turkey, by the end of 2023, contractor companies had implemented 1,864 projects in Africa worth 85.4 billion dollars.
The investments of Turkish companies on the territory of the continent exceed 10 billion dollars, and more than 100,000 Africans work in their companies.
Turkey's engagement with the well-being of the African continent has been gaining momentum over the years. Since taking office nearly two decades ago, first as prime minister, Erdogan has fostered ties with the continent, portraying Turkey as a fairer player than the continent's former colonial powers.
Diplomatic work has seen Turkey's trade with Africa grow to nearly $41 billion at the end of 2022, up from just $5.4 billion in 2003. In 2023, this figure is projected to will reach 50 billion dollars.
The government's priority to engage with Africa has helped facilitate the growth of business and trade relations. He came with a strong commitment aimed at direct aid, infrastructure, transport projects and mutually beneficial economic partnerships.
The major Turkish construction companies in Uganda, Polat Yol and Yapı Merkezi have implemented mega projects.
Polat Yol has won a construction works contract to upgrade the 92km Muyembe-Nakapiriripirit road, which connects Uganda to Kenya, South Sudan and Ethiopia./BGNES
