Iran’s President Raisi Begins Rare Visit to Africa, Seeking to Deepen Partnerships
President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran has embarked on a rare visit to Africa, signaling his country’s intention to strengthen partnerships around the world despite heavy US economic sanctions. This visit marks the first time an Iranian leader has visited the African continent in over a decade. President Raisi is scheduled to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, where he will meet with the respective presidents of these countries.
In a briefing with journalists, President Raisi emphasized that Africa is a “continent of opportunities” and an excellent platform for Iranian products. He expressed dissatisfaction with the current volume of trade between Iran and Africa and highlighted Africa’s mineral resources and Iran’s petrochemical experience as potential areas for collaboration. However, the five memoranda of understanding signed between Iran and Kenya during the visit did not directly address these sectors. Instead, they focused on information and communication technology, fisheries, animal health and livestock production, and investment promotion.
Kenyan President William Ruto referred to Iran as a “critical strategic partner” and a “global innovation powerhouse.” He expressed interest in expanding Kenya’s agricultural exports to Iran and Central Asia beyond tea. Additionally, Iran plans to establish a manufacturing plant for Iranian vehicles in Kenya’s port city of Mombasa.
The purpose of President Raisi’s visit to Africa, according to Iran’s Foreign Ministry, is to promote economic diplomacy, strengthen political relations with friendly countries, and diversify export destinations. This visit follows President Raisi’s recent trip to Latin America, where he visited Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua. It also comes after Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to re-establish diplomatic ties in March, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough.
Iran is currently facing increasing tensions with Western nations over its nuclear program. Since former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the international agreement that restricted Iran’s nuclear activities, the country has made significant advances in its nuclear capabilities. The US has reimposed sanctions on Iran, contributing to a severe economic crisis.
Kenya, as East Africa’s economic hub and a US ally, holds strategic importance. Earlier this year, First Lady Jill Biden visited Kenya, and the US and Kenya signed a memorandum of understanding on strategic civil nuclear cooperation. Kenya has expressed interest in utilizing nuclear power for energy production.
However, Kenya is grappling with debt and a rising cost of living under President Ruto’s leadership. Protests are expected in Nairobi and other parts of the country on Wednesday. Details about President Raisi’s visits to Uganda and Zimbabwe have been scarce.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, a US ally on security matters, has previously voiced support for Iran’s controversial nuclear program. He asserted during former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s visit in 2010 that all sovereign countries have the right to pursue peaceful nuclear programs while advocating for the elimination of nuclear arsenals. Uganda is currently working on establishing a nuclear power plant with the technical support of the China National Nuclear Corporation, aiming to generate electricity by 2031.
Zimbabwe, like Iran, is under US sanctions. Earlier this year, a ministerial delegation from Zimbabwe visited Tehran and agreed to deepen cooperation, particularly in petroleum trade.
President Raisi’s visit to Africa demonstrates Iran’s determination to expand its global partnerships despite economic challenges and political tensions. By engaging with African nations, Iran aims to tap into the continent’s potential and diversify its export destinations. As the world closely watches Iran’s diplomatic efforts, it remains to be seen how these partnerships will develop and contribute to Iran’s economic growth and geopolitical influence.