️ The military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran are destabilizing global trade flows, delivering a severe blow to African economies. The escalating conflict is fundamentally reshaping Iran's political, economic, and security ties with African states, particularly in the Sahel region. Iran's historical presence in Africa dates back to 16th-century Indian Ocean trade networks, but these relations have intensified significantly in recent years.
️ The Iranian government is seeking to strengthen strategic, military, religious, and academic partnerships with African countries while attempting to circumvent international sanctions. In 2025, trade volume between Iran and Africa recorded a dramatic increase, with Iranian exports rising by 85% compared to 2024, highlighting the importance of exporting technological and industrial know-how. Iran also hosts numerous African students at its universities and is active in humanitarian sectors.
️ The US-Israel war with Iran coincides with a challenging period for many African economies, as the breathing space provided by a weaker dollar and lower interest rates for highly indebted countries is being undermined by rising transport costs. Shipping companies are diverting vessels from the Suez Canal to the longer route around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope, increasing shipping expenses and driving up consumer prices. For instance, gasoline prices at stations in Nigeria rose by approximately 11% this week.
️ With Western influence waning in the Sahel region, particularly that of France, Iran is moving to deepen its ties with the Alliance of Sahel States—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Niger's Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine traveled to Tehran in January 2024, and in late February, Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian and Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh welcomed Burkina Faso's Defense Minister General Celestin Simpore to discuss enhanced security cooperation.
️ The United States, Israel, and other countries accuse Iran of seeking to enrich uranium for nuclear weapons development, making the African uranium market, especially Niger's, of potential interest to Tehran. Niger reportedly mined about 5% of the world's uranium in 2022. In 2024, reports emerged of secret negotiations between Iranian authorities and Niger's junta for a deal to purchase 300 tons of uranium, though this agreement has not yet materialized.
️ Technological and military cooperation between Iran and Niger is already established, with Niger purchasing Iranian drones, and other African countries expressing interest in similar acquisitions. Iran's drone manufacturing capabilities, widely recognized, are becoming a tool for bolstering Tehran's military links with African partners.
Source: www.dw.com