Kuwait’s relationship with African nations ‘Deep and Historic’: Al-Yahya
‘Africa Day celebration in Kuwait served not only as a commemoration of a significant occasion but also as a reaffirmation of enduring friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations between Kuwait and Africa’
The Times Kuwait Report
Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah Al-Yahya, during the Africa Day celebrations which were held under the theme ‘Africa–Kuwait Cooperation for Enhanced Kuwaiti Investment in Africa Toward a Strategic Partnership’ said Kuwait’s ties with African nations are deep-rooted and historic in nature.
The event was organized by ambassadors and heads of African diplomatic missions accredited to Kuwait.
In a press statement marking the occasion, Al-Yahya extended his sincere congratulations to all African nations, highlighting Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and coordination with the African continent.
He said Kuwait is proud of its longstanding partnership with Africa, particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), which has played a vital role in supporting infrastructure and key development projects across the continent since its founding in 1961.
Al-Yahya added that Kuwait’s approach to Africa is built on mutual respect and shared goals for development, peace, and prosperity, and noted that Africa continues to be a strategic partner in Kuwait’s global outreach.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Arif Said Hassan, Ambassador of the Union of the Comoros, addressed attendees during the event, praising Kuwait’s enduring support for African nations.
“It is a great honor to welcome you to this celebration in the beautiful city of Kuwait — renowned for its hospitality, generosity, and humanitarian spirit,” he said. Hassan expressed his gratitude to Minister Al-Yahya for his active support of the diplomatic corps, stating, “Your presence among us today is a powerful testament to your deep appreciation for Africa and its people. On behalf of myself and my fellow African ambassadors, I extend our heartfelt thanks for honoring this historic occasion with your participation.”
He added, “Kuwait is writing its name in gold on the forehead of the African continent, reinforcing and deepening its ties with African nations.” Ambassador Hassan emphasized that this year’s event, which coincides with the 61st anniversary of the founding of the African Union, is an opportunity to spotlight the continent’s diversity, creativity, and progress.
He noted that each African diplomatic mission had the chance to present its national achievements, innovations, and artistic contributions, reflecting the collective resilience of African nations in overcoming challenges and pursuing African-led solutions.
He also highlighted the African Union’s ambitious vision of continental integration—through regional economic blocs and the gradual establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area—as essential to achieving long-term prosperity.
“In this dynamic context,” Hassan said, “African countries need to rely on strong partners with proven development expertise. We highly value the Kuwait Fund’s collaboration with 51 African countries and its successful initiatives in partnership with the African Development Bank to support African economies.”
Also speaking on the sidelines of the event, Somali Ambassador Abdullah Mohamed Sheikh Abdullah stressed Kuwait’s vital role as a development partner for the African continent.
“Kuwait will remain a key partner in developing Africa—a continent that is fertile, rich in natural resources, and driven by a young, dynamic population,” he stated. The Somali envoy praised Kuwait’s diplomatic efforts in promoting peaceful conflict resolution, its collaboration in counter-terrorism, and its contributions to development through KFAED projects. He also commended Kuwait’s role in addressing food security challenges across African Union countries.
The Africa Day celebration in Kuwait served not only as a commemoration of a significant occasion but also as a reaffirmation of enduring friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations between Kuwait and Africa.
An art exhibition was inaugurated, displaying both contemporary and traditional works by African artists.
The event also featured captivating musical performances by several African folkloric troupes, celebrating the continent’s rich cultural heritage and the longstanding people-to-people connections between Kuwait and African nations.
