African leaders are convening in Egypt for the inaugural Alamein Africa Forum, a three-day business summit taking place in the Mediterranean city of Alamein. The event, part of Egypt's efforts to reassert its influence across the continent, is expected to bring together more than 20 heads of state and government representatives, alongside business leaders, bankers, and development institutions. Egypt's deputy foreign minister for African affairs, Mohamed Abu Bakr Saleh, emphasized that the forum will provide a platform for countries to sign agreements and foster cooperation.
The Alamein Africa Forum is a key component of Egypt's strategy to rebuild its influence within Africa, where China and Gulf states, particularly the United Arab Emirates, have emerged as major players. Egypt has long focused on the Middle East and the Mediterranean but is now seeking to rally backing for its interests, including its dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The forum will focus on infrastructure, trade, agriculture, healthcare, mining, technology, and renewable energy, with Egyptian investments across Africa estimated at around $14 billion.
One of Egypt's flagship ventures in Africa is the $3 billion Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project in Tanzania, built by a consortium led by Egyptian companies. However, despite the potential for growth, trade within Africa remains limited, totaling just $192 billion in 2023 and accounting for around 15 percent of the continent's total trade. In comparison, intra-regional trade in Asia and Europe accounts for over 55 percent and 70 percent, respectively.
The African continent attracted about $70 billion in foreign direct investment in 2025, a fraction of the roughly $1.6 trillion invested globally, according to the UN. Egypt's deputy foreign minister, Mohamed Abu Bakr Saleh, noted that Africa possesses vast resources, but they are still not being exploited to the desired level. The forum aims to address these challenges and unlock the continent's potential for economic growth.
The gathering takes place against the backdrop of an unresolved dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia over the $5 billion GERD, Africa's largest hydroelectric project. Ethiopia says the dam is vital for economic growth, while Egypt sees it as a threat to its vital share of Nile waters without a binding operating agreement. Despite over a decade of negotiations, a settlement has yet to be reached.
Egypt's position on the GERD dispute remains unchanged, with Saleh stating that it is an existential issue for Egypt. The forum will become a biennial event under an African Union mandate, providing a platform for countries to engage in dialogue and cooperation. Officials hope that the event will lead to increased investment and cooperation across the continent.
As the Alamein Africa Forum commences, leaders are expected to discuss ways to bolster continental influence and cooperation. With a focus on key sectors such as infrastructure and trade, the event aims to unlock Africa's potential for economic growth and development. The forum's outcomes will be closely watched, particularly in the context of Egypt's efforts to reassert its influence across the continent.
Key points
- The Alamein Africa Forum aims to provide a platform for African countries to sign agreements and foster cooperation.
- Egyptian investments across Africa are estimated at around $14 billion.
- The forum will focus on key sectors such as infrastructure, trade, and renewable energy.
