In the shadow of global and geopolitical pressures, members of the Gulf Corporation Council- Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates- embarked on a strategy of economic diversification from oil and reduced reliance on food imports. Sub-Saharan African countries face several development challenges ranging from agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, which fosters an ample investment climate.Member States of the GCC have aided Sub-Saharan economies and governments on several fronts as mediators in times of political impasse, as investors for economic development and as allies in precarious security situations. Firstly, the report delineates essential African economic sectors needing development and the breadth of collaboration with the GCC to realise several goals. Secondly, the country profiles contextualise respective economic outlooks, trade agreements and idiosyncratic synergies between Persian Gulf monarchies and Sub-Saharan countries. Lastly, the report offers a comprehensive guide to the partnership’s possibilities.GCC States aspire to address mutual needs and build upon long-standing relationships informed by the cultural and geographic proximity to Africa. To date, GCC-led investments exceed 100 billion USD, support human capital development, bolster multilateral trade, and increase output in underdeveloped sectors.
The report highlights the evolving interests of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, driven by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, food security concerns, and changing geopolitics. It emphasizes significant investments in Africa, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure, energy and agribusiness projects. The GCC aims to diversify its economies, leveraging Africa's potential for mutual growth. Challenges like inflation and supply disruptions heighten the importance of Africa's abundant resources and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.The report explores various aspects of GCC-Sub-Saharan African relations, covering economic, trade, agriculture, real estate, tourism, aid, regional security, and more. It delves into opportunities in agriculture, industry, tourism, information and communication technology, logistics, infrastructure, energy, minerals, and cultural exchange. Additionally, it addresses the future of GCC-Sub-Saharan African relationships and examines the challenges and potential solutions in these areas.
