Sultan Al Shamsi on UAE’s investment landscape in Africa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been making significant strides in Africa's development landscape, with a focus on strategic investments and collaboration. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Sultan Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister for Development and International Organizations of the UAE, shed light on the country's strong historical ties with Africa and its commitment to fostering mutually beneficial relationships across the continent. The UAE's approach to investing in Africa is entrenched in the principles of sustainability, partnership, and knowledge-sharing. Al Shamsi highlighted the key sectors of focus for Emirati investors in Africa, including renewable energy, logistics, ports, and financial services. He emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for private sector engagement to drive job creation and economic growth. The UAE's experience as a hub of business and innovation serves as a valuable resource for African countries looking to enhance their development agendas. Al Shamsi pointed out the lessons learned from the UAE's journey of growth and diversification, stressing the significance of leveraging technology, infrastructure, and human capital in driving sustainable development. The UAE Technical Assistance Programs have been instrumental in facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity-building initiatives between the UAE and African nations. As the global dynamics continue to evolve, political diplomacy plays a critical role in promoting trade and cooperation between the Emirates and Africa. Al Shamsi underscored the UAE's advocacy for peaceful resolutions to conflicts and its commitment to addressing climate change challenges in the region. The UAE's foreign aid policy prioritizes promoting peace and prosperity as a cornerstone of its engagement with African countries. Despite the numerous challenges facing the continent, including conflicts, climate change, and neglected crises, the UAE remains steadfast in its support for sustainable solutions and inclusive development across Africa.