African Agency in Gulf - Africa Relations: South Africa & Ethiopia

In this episode of the WASSAP podcast, we take a closer look at how African agency unfolds in real-world partnerships with Gulf countries.

Moving from abstract conceptualization of agency to concrete examples, hosts Desirée Custers and Hubert Kinkoh are joined by Dr. Bob Wekesa and Dr. Amare Aweke, who bring perspectives from South Africa and Ethiopia. Together, they explore how African actors engage with Gulf partners in areas such as investment, infrastructure, and regional security.

Drawing on their research and policy experience, the guests highlight how African countries are not simply responding to external influence, but are actively shaping their partnerships and navigating opportunities, managing risks, and pursuing their own strategic priorities.

The episode reveals a dynamic and evolving relationship marked by negotiation, interdependence, and shifting global dynamics, where African agency plays a central role in defining the future of Africa – West Asia relations.