On February 6, 2023, Turkey was hit by twin earthquakes that killed over 45,000 people. In response to this tragedy, Uganda joined several other African countries to provide international assistance. On March 5, 2023, Uganda sent 13 tons of aid supplies, including 750 mattresses and 550 blankets, to Turkey to help the victims of the earthquake. The aid was delivered via Turkish Airlines, and the Turkish Embassy in Kampala released a statement expressing their gratitude.
The relationship between Uganda and Turkey is not a new one. The two countries have enjoyed diplomatic relations since the early 1960s. However, the relationship between the two countries has been characterized by sporadic engagement, with limited economic and political ties. Turkey has been keen to strengthen its ties with African countries in recent years, with a particular focus on economic and commercial cooperation. In the last decade, Turkey has expanded its diplomatic presence in Africa, opening new embassies in several countries, including Uganda. The opening of the Turkish Embassy in Kampala in 2018 was a significant step towards deepening the relationship between the two countries.
One of the factors that have contributed to the strengthening of Uganda and Turkey’s relationship is their shared history of political independence struggles. Turkey supported Uganda in its struggle for independence from British colonial rule, and the two countries have maintained friendly relations since then. In recent years, Uganda has become a strategic partner for Turkey in the East African region, with Turkey’s government and private sector investing in the country’s infrastructure, energy, and education sectors.
Uganda’s decision to provide aid to Türkiye after the earthquakes is a testament to the strength of the relationship between the two countries. The aid delivery demonstrates Uganda’s commitment to supporting its international partners during times of crisis. The Ugandan government has also praised the Indian community in Uganda for their instrumental role in mobilizing the relief supplies. This demonstrates the importance of a strong and vibrant diaspora community in promoting international cooperation and solidarity.
Turkey has been actively seeking to increase its engagement with Africa, and Uganda presents a significant opportunity for Turkish investment and development cooperation. The country has vast untapped potential, with significant natural resources and a large youthful population. In recent years, the Ugandan government has made significant investments in infrastructure development, energy, and education. These investments have created a conducive environment for foreign investment, and Turkey is well-positioned to take advantage of these opportunities.
The Turkish government has recognized the importance of investing in the African continent and has taken concrete steps towards this end. In 2005, Turkey launched the Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit, which has since become an essential platform for promoting economic and political cooperation between Turkey and African countries. The summit has provided a platform for African countries to showcase their investment potential, and Turkey has responded by investing in several key sectors in these countries, including energy, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Turkey’s engagement with Africa has not been without its challenges, and critics have raised concerns about the country’s motivations for investing in the continent. Some have accused Turkey of pursuing neo-colonialist policies and using investment as a means of gaining political influence. However, proponents of Turkey’s engagement with Africa argue that the country’s approach is different from traditional donors and is driven by a desire for mutual benefit.
The aid delivery from Uganda to Türkiye serves as an example of the benefits of international cooperation during times of crisis. The Ugandan government has shown that it is committed to supporting its international partners during times of need, and Turkey has recognized this gesture of solidarity. As Turkey continues to seek new opportunities for engagement in Africa, Uganda presents a significant opportunity for Turkish investment and development cooperation.
Uganda’s decision to provide aid to Turkey after the earthquakes is a positive step towards strengthening the relationship between the two countries.
Image Credit: Turkish Government/Twitter
