We Can Build an Integrated Energy Network

Minister Bayraktar participated in the 5th Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum held in Istanbul. 

Agreements with 20 Countries

Speaking at the “Energy and Mining” panel held on the sidelines of the forum, Minister Bayraktar pointed out that Turkey's relations with Africa have deepened in every field, from diplomacy to education, trade to energy and mining, over the past 20 years, and said that cooperation agreements in the fields of energy and mining have been signed with approximately 20 African countries.

An Example for Africa

Minister Bayraktar stated that Türkiye's energy transformation sets a meaningful example for Africa, saying, “We have managed to attract a massive investment of over $100 billion to our energy production markets.” 

Renewables as the Top Priority

Bayraktar mentioned that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has set a target of 120 gigawatts of installed capacity in wind and solar power by 2035, saying, “Like many African countries, we have great potential in renewable energy. That is why I want to emphasize that renewable energy is the number one area for cooperation.”

15% from Nuclear Power

Bayraktar stated that the first reactor at Akkuyu NGS will become operational next year and that they are in talks for new power plants in the Sinop and Thrace regions. Bayraktar said they want to reach 20 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050 and noted that they aim to meet at least 15 percent of electricity production from nuclear power, along with small modular reactors.

Gold in Niger

Pointing out that the state-owned international mining companies MTA International and Eti Maden are operating in Niger, Bayraktar said, “We will soon start our first gold production in Niger. We see Africa's mineral wealth as a foundation for the continent's future prosperity.”

Turkish Companies Are Ready

Bayraktar mentioned that they have significant experience in regional network planning, stability, and interconnections, stating, “We can cooperate in these areas. Turkish companies are ready to work on solar, wind, hybrid solutions, microgrids, and storage.”

Long-Term Cooperation

Bayraktar stated that Africa's energy future will shape not only regional prosperity but also the stability and growth of the African economy, adding: Türkiye is ready to be a founding member of a long-term cooperation based on mutual interest and respect as part of this future. By advancing joint projects, strengthening institutional partnerships, and facilitating investment and trade, we can establish an integrated energy network connecting Türkiye and Africa. 

Agreement with Gambia

Following the panel, the “Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Türkiye and the Government of Gambia on Cooperation in the Field of Energy” was signed to develop cooperation between Türkiye and Gambia in the field of energy.

Renewable Projects

According to the framework agreement signed by Minister Bayraktar and Gambia's Minister of Petroleum, Energy, and Mines Nani Juwara, the two countries will develop joint projects related to the construction and operation of hydroelectric, solar, and wind power plants. They will encourage public and private companies to invest in renewable energy sectors. Türkiye will share its knowledge and experience in areas such as electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as energy conservation and energy efficiency.