United Arab Emirates : East Africa, a strategic priority
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is strengthening its presence in East Africa through strategic investments in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and trade. Recently, a historic partnership with Kenya highlighted their ambition to diversify their economic relations with the continent.
On January 14, 2025, Kenya and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a turning point in their economic relations. This agreement, the first of its kind signed by the UAE with an African country, aims to enhance trade exchanges and promote mutual investments. Kenyan President William Ruto emphasized that this agreement will allow Kenya to become a gateway for East Africa, while facilitating Kenyan businesses’ access to the Emirati market. « This partnership will open new opportunities for our economy and strengthen our trade exchanges, » said Ruto during the signing.
Over 100 billion dollars invested in Africa
Between 2012 and 2022, the UAE invested over 100 billion dollars in Africa, positioning itself as the fourth-largest investor on the continent, behind China, Europe, and the United States. These investments cover various sectors, including agriculture, mining, port infrastructure, and particularly renewable energy. This aligns with their strategy of economic diversification and energy transition. These investments aim to support the sustainable development of the region, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and promote clean energy solutions. Furthermore, this strengthens their role as a global leader in the renewable energy sector.
Diversification, growth… and influence!
The UAE’s strategy in East Africa indeed relies on diversifying their investments, aiming to strengthen their position in the global market while supporting the economic growth of the countries in the region. Investments are focused on key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and technology. This approach aims to address the development needs of African countries while offering opportunities for Emirati businesses. Beyond that, it is about consolidating their influence on the global stage.
By investing in strategic sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and agriculture, the UAE seeks to strengthen its role as a key player in global issues related to energy transition, food security, and sustainable development. Strengthening relations with African countries also allows the UAE to position itself as a preferred partner for other regions of the world while consolidating its diplomatic and economic influence internationally. This approach aligns with their ambition to diversify their economy, historically dependent on hydrocarbons, while amplifying their role in the new global power dynamics and innovations.
East Africa is a key region for the future of our global investments
In this regard, East Africa is revealed as both an entry point and a catalyst for Emirati regional ambitions, as explained by Emirati Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Sultan Al Jaber. “East Africa is a key region for the future of our global investments. We are committed to supporting its growth and strengthening our partnerships in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture.”
In recent years, the UAE has concentrated a significant portion of its investments in East Africa, in countries like Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Uganda. These investments translate into projects in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and agriculture. For example, Kenya has benefited from partnerships to develop port infrastructure and solar energy projects. Rwanda has seen investments in modernizing its infrastructure, technologies, and agricultural support. In Ethiopia, funding has been directed towards industrial infrastructure and transport networks. Similarly, in Uganda, the UAE has supported geothermal energy projects and the rehabilitation of port infrastructure.
This ambitious strategy allows the UAE to position itself as a key partner for the development of East Africa while consolidating its regional and global influence.
