The influence of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Africa is experiencing a significant increase, transforming diplomatic and economic relations with many countries on the continent. This dynamic has been particularly visible since the election of Ebrahim Raïssi in 2021, marked by a series of visits and strategic bilateral agreements.
Iranian diplomacy : Expanding strategy
Iran’s diplomacy in Africa is characterized by a series of initiatives and diplomatic visits. Since 2021, Iranian officials have been making numerous trips to sub-Saharan Africa. In August 2022, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian visited Mali and Tanzania, then South Africa in 2023. Meanwhile, advisor Ali Bagheri Kani visited Niger and Burkina Faso in January 2023. In July 2023, President Raïssi met with leaders from Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, thereby consolidating relations with these countries after more than a decade without presidential visits.
These visits have been accompanied by the signing of numerous agreements in the industrial, energy, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and telecommunications sectors. For example, in Uganda, Iran has supported local legislation and criticized the West, which has strengthened bilateral ties. In Algeria, in March 2024, diplomatic rapprochement has strengthened economic and political cooperation similar to the initiatives by G7 leaders in favor of Africa.
Religious soft power : Strategic Influence
Iran uses religious soft power to extend its influence in Africa. With a Muslim population of 500 million people in 2021, Iran organizes conferences, religious and political events, and collaborates with local partners. More than a hundred Islamic centers, schools, seminaries, and mosques are present in over thirty African countries. Al-Mustafa International University, founded in 2007, trains religious scholars and missionaries, thereby increasing Shiite influence on the continent. Since its inception, more than 45,000 religious scholars have graduated.
Nigeria is a notable example of this influence. Before the Iranian revolution of 1979, there were no Shiites in the country. Today, between 2 to 3 million Nigerians have converted to Shiism, supported by the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization (ICRO) and Al-Mustafa University.
Economic and political expansion : Increased presence
In January 2023, Iran opened eight business centers in Africa to promote Iranian companies. The first Iran-West Africa Economic Summit took place in March 2023, renamed in April 2024 as the « Conference for Economic Cooperation between Iran and Africa ». This initiative reflects the belief of Iranian authorities that « the future of global trade will be determined in Africa ».
Politically, Iran is increasing its soft power vectors by launching news channels such as Hausa TV, aimed at Hausa speakers in Africa. Simultaneously, Iran is leveraging the military success of its drones to strengthen its geopolitical positions. For instance, the sale of yellowcake or Nigerien uranium concentrate was allegedly conditioned on the delivery of Iranian combat drones.
Case of Niger : Illustration of closer ties
Niger is a compelling example of Iranian influence in Africa. In 2024, discussions took place for the delivery of over 300 tons of Nigerien uranium concentrate to Iran. In response to American protests, the Nigerien junta broke off military cooperation with Washington and demanded the withdrawal of American forces from the country. This development illustrates the anti-Western sentiment exploited by Iran and its rapprochement with Sahel countries.
Iran also uses charitable organizations like the Iranian Red Crescent and the Imam Khomeini Relief Committee to provide social and health services in Africa, thereby enhancing its positive image and influence on the continent.
Iran’s growing influence in Africa is multifaceted, combining active diplomacy, religious soft power, and economic expansion. This strategy allows Iran to strengthen its geopolitical positions while gaining valuable allies on the African continent. The repercussions of this increased presence will be felt in the long term, both for African countries and for Western powers.
