The IV Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF) in 2023 marked the culmination of a series of forums initiated since 2016. Organized by the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye and the African Union Commission, TABEF sought to provide a platform where key representatives from Türkiye and Africa, both public and private sectors, could deliberate on crucial aspects of the development of the private sector and the establishment of innovative Public-Private Partnerships. The overarching aim of TABEF was to bolster large-scale, sustainable, and inclusive growth and development, fostering a more robust partnership between Türkiye and Africa.

Under the theme “Addressing Challenges, Unlocking Opportunities: Building Stronger Türkiye-Africa Economic Partnerships,” TABEF 2023 set the stage for a profound discourse on critical issues, including trade barriers, infrastructure development, financing, and regulatory measures. The Forum aimed to facilitate discussions that could enhance collaboration, particularly in trade and investment, thereby revealing the full potential of the partnership and promoting inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

TABEF 2023 featured vibrant discussions centering around essential topics for the African continent. The focus areas encompassed infrastructure development, collaboration on manufacturing and agro-industries, opportunities and benefits of free zones, defense, and aviation technology, investment and trade financing, African digital transformation, health technology, and the promotion of tourism.

The event saw a notable gathering of influential personalities from both Türkiye and Africa. Participants included H.E. Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Türkiye, H.E. Azali Assoumani, Chairperson of the African Union/President of the Union of Comoros; and several other prominent figures from both regions. Importantly, the forum included the presence of ECOWAS-FEBWE’s National Coordinator, Mrs. Princess Omotola Omole, alongside other women and young entrepreneurs, further enriching the Forum’s diversity and collective vision for a prosperous future.