NEWS

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strengthened its economic and energy partnerships with African countries. Officials highlighted new investments, renewable energy programmes and strategic cooperation during the 2026 African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

In a statement released on Sunday, February 15,  the UAE said Minister of State Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan attended the summit. He joined African heads of state and senior officials to discuss continental priorities. These included peace and security, economic integration and sustainable development.

The minister said UAE–Africa relations build on long-standing trade, maritime and cultural links. He referenced historic exchanges across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean corridors. He said this relationship now supports a growing diplomatic presence. The UAE currently operates 19 embassies across Sub-Saharan Africa. African countries are also expanding diplomatic representation in the UAE.

Furthermore, the UAE said its participation reflects a long-term commitment to partnerships across Africa. The country said it aims to support stability, development and shared economic growth.

Between 2019 and 2023, the UAE committed more than $110bn in investments across Africa. This represents the highest investment volume by any single country during that period. More than $70bn of this funding went into energy, green and renewable sectors.

Through the Africa Green Investment Initiative, the UAE has mobilised $4.5bn for clean energy deployment. The programme currently supports more than 60 projects. These projects span solar, wind, geothermal, battery storage and green hydrogen value chains.

The UAE said African countries received nearly 40 per cent of its foreign assistance. That support totalled about $20.9bn over the past decade.

Climate and water security are emerging as priority areas. The UAE will co-host the UN Water Conference in 2026 with Senegal. The event will run from December 2 to 4. It marks the first time two Global South countries will jointly lead the global water policy process.

The UAE said the move reflects a shared commitment to water security, sanitation and climate resilience. Officials said these issues have become more urgent as climate pressures intensify across vulnerable regions.