Kuwait, strategic partner in Africa’s economic transformation

Acting Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Sierra Leone to Kuwait, Haja Ishata Thomas, affirmed Kuwait’s capacity to play a vital role in Africa’s economic transformation.

Citing its strong financial institutions, proven infrastructure expertise, and commitment to South-South cooperation, she described Kuwait as “well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to this new era of African economic growth.”

Speaking at a press conference marking preparation for Africa Day 2025 — celebrated on May 25, the founding date of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union — Thomas addressed a large gathering of African ambassadors accredited to Kuwait.

She said this year’s celebrations in Kuwait are themed: “African-Kuwaiti Cooperation – Enhancing Kuwaiti Investment in Africa for Strategic Partnership.”

She emphasized Kuwait’s continued solidarity with African nations, particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, which has financed over 300 projects across the African continent. “Kuwait has consistently demonstrated friendship and support for Africa’s development aspirations,” she noted.

Encouraging greater private-sector engagement, Thomas called on Kuwaiti investors to seize growing opportunities in Africa’s expanding markets, especially in sectors such as energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and digital technology.

“Africa welcomes Kuwaiti investors willing to partner with local entrepreneurs and governments to build mutually beneficial ventures,” she said.

She concluded with a call for action: “Let this be a turning point — a platform for tangible investment, stronger diplomatic ties, and a renewed spirit of solidarity. Africa and Kuwait, hand in hand, can build a future of prosperity, security, and mutual respect.”

Mali’s Ambassador, Ali Ould Ahmed, praised Kuwait’s constructive role in Africa’s development, citing both Kuwait Fund projects and the work of Kuwaiti charitable organizations across several African countries.

Kenya’s Ambassador, Halima Mahmoud, highlighted security cooperation between Kuwait and African countries, especially in the fight against terrorism, noting that the collaboration is active and effective.

Tunisian Ambassador Mohamed Boudali described Kuwaiti-African relations as historic, dating back over 60 years, and underscored Kuwait’s contributions to development and its ongoing support for African progress.

Calling Africa a “promising frontier for investment,” he urged Kuwaiti businessmen to explore opportunities in Tunisia and across the continent. He also revealed plans to host an African Investment Meeting in Kuwait, organized by African Union ambassadors, focusing on sectors such as food security.

Responding to a question on the possibility of an African Schengen-style visa, Moroccan Ambassador Ali Ben Issa clarified that many African countries already grant visa-free access to Kuwaitis, though a unified system remains a future goal.

“We are not there yet,” he said, “but African countries are politically committed to achieving greater economic integration.” He also praised Kuwait’s ongoing cooperation in vital sectors such as infrastructure, food security, and digital connectivity.

The press conference reaffirmed the African diplomatic corps’ collective interest in advancing African-Kuwaiti strategic partnerships, highlighting investment over aid, and celebrating Africa Day 2025 as a new chapter in deepening bilateral ties.