Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian
Türkiye’s National Intelligence Academy, a branch of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT), has officially launched the Africa Certificate Program, aiming to strengthen ties with the continent as relations with Ankara have deepened in recent years. The program’s inaugural session took place in Ankara on Monday, led by Professor Talha Köse, the academy’s chair, who emphasized Türkiye’s dedication to fostering positive relations with Africa.
The certificate program will run until Friday and will be conducted by esteemed experts from Türkiye specializing in African studies. Topics covered will include Türkiye-Africa relations, the continent’s politics and economics, security issues, the roles of international organizations, and the concept of Pan-Africanism. This comprehensive curriculum aims to facilitate in-depth discussions on Africa’s dynamics and unique perspectives while providing a broad overview of the region.
In his remarks during the program’s launch, Köse noted Africa’s growing importance in Türkiye’s strategic priorities. “The historical relations we established over centuries, from North Africa to the Sahara and from the Horn of Africa to South Africa, have left significant marks across the continent. These ties form the foundation of Türkiye’s contemporary cooperation with Africa, and our multidimensional relations will play a crucial role in the continent’s future,” he stated.
Köse highlighted Africa’s emergence as a key player in the global arena, citing its large population, youthful workforce, abundant natural resources, and strategic location. “Africa is not just a source of raw materials but an essential participant in global commerce. Its influence in international bodies, including the United Nations, positions it as a significant player in global politics,” he added.
Reflecting on Türkiye’s “Africa opening” initiative launched two decades ago, Köse remarked on the progress made. “Türkiye has developed a vast diplomatic network across Africa and established robust economic relations with the continent. We are committed to maintaining strong partnerships based on humanitarian values and shared interests. Our efforts have resonated well across Africa,” he noted.
Despite its vast potential, Köse acknowledged that Africa faces numerous challenges, including economic inequality, political instability, and security threats stemming from its colonial past. He pointed out that terrorism, regional conflicts, and migration pose significant risks to the continent’s peace and security. In this context, he stressed the importance of Türkiye’s security cooperation with African nations, noting that Ankara has provided military training to several countries and is working to enhance their security capabilities.
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