Research & Policy Papers

In her article, Dr. Irit Beck analyzes the Lobito Corridor project in historical and geopolitical contexts. What is the historical background that led to American investment in the project and what are the broader geopolitical implications of the corridor, which was born as a response to China's "Belt and Road" Initiative (BRI).

Mavinga Mwene reviews the longstanding tradition of collaboration between Africa and the United States and argues that the second Trump presidency presents African leaders with an opportunity to embrace a more pragmatic, trade-driven model rooted in shared values and self-reliance.

מצבה של סומליה הוא קריטי. במוקד, סכנה לנפילת מוגדישו לידי א-שבאב, ארגון הטרור האסלאמיסטי-סוני המזוהה עם אל-קאעדה, הפועל בעיקר בסומליה ובקרן אפריקה. צוות המכון במסמך מדיניות והמלצות למדיניות ישראל.

Daniel Winer, Adv., reviews the legal frameworks supporting international trade, presents the current situation in Israel, and recommends adopting a more proactive approach—one that mirrors its successful strategies in other global markets.

Dr. Hussein Solomon and Matan Daniel, researchers at the institute, review the history of the rise of jihad in the Sahel, trends in recent years, and possible implications for Israel.

Dr. Asher Lubotzky reviews how South Africa has been a leading critic of Israel during the current war. While its anti-Israel position is entrenched within the ruling ANC, he argues that changes are on the horizon amid the election of President Trump.

In this policy paper, Simon Seroussi, Daniel Saka Mbumba and Dr. Anne-Sophie Sebban-Bécache explore the strategic importance of air routes between Israel and Africa, highlighting the historical, economic, and geopolitical factors influencing these connections. It emphasizes the role of aviation in projecting power, enhancing globalization, and fostering diplomatic relations.

Addressing Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Multifaceted Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Resilience, by Dr. Moshe Terdiman

A policy paper by Zafrir Asaf and Yuval Derry highlights Israel's modest diplomatic and economic engagement with Africa. Despite diplomatic ties with 46 countries, Israel's exports and investments in Africa remain low. Key recommendations include appointing a Special Envoy for Africa, engaging with AfCFTA, boosting service exports, fostering tech innovation, and increasing direct investments. Israel lags competitors like Turkey and the UAE, and a more strategic, long-term approach is encouraged.

In her analysis of Israel's relations with Africa, Dr. Irit Back examines the historical and current characteristics of these relations and the patterns of support for Israel at the United Nations in the context of the African continent.

In joint research by the Israel-Africa Relations Institute and the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS), Dr. Hay Eytan Cohen Yanarocak, an expert on Turkey, reviews Turkey’s extensive and strategic activity in Africa. Dr. Yanarocak analyzes how Turkey leveraged military support and soft power outreach, while ensuring to treat its African partners with respect, resulting in growing influence and considerable political achievements. The full article is available in English only.

Dr. Asher (Asi) Lubotzky, a research fellow at the Israel-Africa Relations Institute, reviews the UAE's involvement in the African continent, points out the shared interests between Israel and the UAE in Africa, and discusses how cooperation between the two countries could serve as a significant force multiplier in achieving those interests. Available only in Hebrew.