Africa, with its young population, rich natural resources, and dynamic social fabric, is poised to become an increasingly visible and influential actor in the international system in the second half of the 21st century. Türkiye conducts its relations with African countries on the basis of mutual understanding and respect, within a framework of equal partnership and shared humanitarian values. Continuing to share its historical experience and institutional know-how with African countries and their peoples, Türkiye develops its relations with the continent through a multidimensional and inclusive perspective.
One of the most tangible and humane reflections of this approach on the ground has been the establishment of the Africa Cultural House, which aims to ensure that products handcrafted by African women find fair value through an equitable platform. This initiative took shape in line with the vision of Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, the First Lady of Türkiye, who closely witnessed women’s production processes, labor, and life struggles during her visits to Africa. Launched in 2016, the Africa Cultural House represents a humane understanding of solidarity that makes the value of labor visible while prioritizing the dignity of producers and their sustainable livelihoods.
Established in Ankara with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and relevant institutions, the Africa Handicrafts and Culture House represent the institutional realization of this vision. Operating through an inclusive and people-centered cooperation model that brings together public institutions, the private sector, and civil society in Türkiye, the Africa Cultural House stands out as a meaningful initiative that embodies sensitivity to the social and economic challenges faced by African women, as well as a spirit of solidarity and brotherhood, without discrimination based on language, religion, or ethnic origin.
