The Institute for Israel-Africa Relations
Diplomatic – Economic - Technological Bridge-Building between the State of Israel and Nations in Africa
Research & Policy Papers
Israel-Africa Air Routes: Overview and Recommendations
In this policy paper, Simon Seroussi, Daniel Saka Mbumba and Dr. Anne-Sophie Sebban-Bécache explore the strategic importance of air routes between Israel and Africa, highlighting the historical, economic, and geopolitical factors influencing these connections. It emphasizes the role of aviation in projecting power, enhancing globalization, and fostering diplomatic relations.
Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa
Addressing Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Multifaceted Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Resilience, by Dr. Moshe Terdiman
A bridge over turbulent waters: the economic relations between Israel and the countries of sub-Saharan Africa in the information age (2000-2024)
A policy paper by Zafrir Asaf and Yuval Derry highlights Israel's modest diplomatic and economic engagement with Africa. Despite diplomatic ties with 46 countries, Israel's exports and investments in Africa remain low. Key recommendations include appointing a Special Envoy for Africa, engaging with AfCFTA, boosting service exports, fostering tech innovation, and increasing direct investments. Israel lags competitors like Turkey and the UAE, and a more strategic, long-term approach is encouraged.
Israel and Africa: The United Nations and the patterns of Israel's relations with Africa
In her analysis of Israel's relations with Africa, Dr. Irit Back examines the historical and current characteristics of these relations and the patterns of support for Israel at the United Nations in the context of the African continent.
Turkey’s Deepening Inroads in Africa
In joint research by the Israel-Africa Relations Institute and the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS), Dr. Hay Eytan Cohen Yanarocak, an expert on Turkey, reviews Turkey’s extensive and strategic activity in Africa. Dr. Yanarocak analyzes how Turkey leveraged military support and soft power outreach, while ensuring to treat its African partners with respect, resulting in growing influence and considerable political achievements. The full article is available in English only.
"Abraham Accords" in Africa? The Rise of the UAE's Influence on the Continent and Implications for Israel
Dr. Asher (Asi) Lubotsky, a research fellow at the Israel-Africa Relations Institute, reviews the UAE's involvement in the African continent, points out the shared interests between Israel and the UAE in Africa, and discusses how cooperation between the two countries could serve as a significant force multiplier in achieving those interests. Available only in Hebrew.
The Moroccan-Israeli relationship: new horizons and the prospects for cooperation in Africa
The relationship between Morocco and Israel is unique in the region and holds significant potential for growth and positive influence beyond the borders of both countries, particularly in Africa. Colonel (ret.) Dr. Eran Lerman, Deputy Director of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS), and Nacima Kerouad, Research Assistant at the Israel-Africa Relations Institute, have explored this multifaceted and distinctive relationship. They have identified potential avenues for cooperation across Africa.
ISRAEL & AFRICA: BENEFITS FROM STRONGER ECONOMIC RELATIONS
This study explores the potential benefits of strengthening economic relations between Israel and Africa. Conducted by the Menomadin Foundation and Oxford Economics, the research reveals that while Israel's ties with African countries are generally limited, closer economic cooperation could be advantageous for all parties involved.
The Great Powers’ Struggle in Africa: China and Russia are sidelining the West, which is attempting to formulate a new strategy for the continent
The weakening of the U.S. and France in various parts of Africa, coupled with Russia’s growing influence—particularly in the Sahel region and Central Africa—represents a dramatic shift in power dynamics among nations on the continent. This development, combined with China’s strengthening economic presence in Africa, poses an additional challenge to American dominance in shaping the international order. Russia’s rising profile in Africa is particularly relevant given the increasing African demand for security assistance against the growing global jihadist threat, and the disappointment with Western effectiveness in this context. From Israel’s perspective, the fact that many African countries are turning to Russia due to security challenges posed by the expanding global jihadist presence on the continent presents an opportunity for Israel to demonstrate its value. Israel itself is capable of providing security assistance in this area, further enhancing its position in Africa.
Uganda: A Look to the Future/ Dr. Irit Back
This paper provides an in-depth examination of Uganda's current political and economic landscape, offering potential investors a thorough understanding of both the promising investment opportunities and the attendant political risks. Additionally, it assesses sectors historically engaged by Israeli firms and identifies potential areas of collaboration and development to foster stronger bilateral ties between Uganda and Israel.