By Ijeoma Agbafo
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is set to begin a three-nation tour of Africa on Monday, with visits to Mauritania, Nigeria and South Africa aimed at strengthening political and economic ties with the continent.
The visit, his third to Africa this year, comes as Germany and the European Union seek to deepen cooperation with African countries amid shifting global trade dynamics and changing international partnerships. Wadephul will be accompanied by a business delegation to explore investment opportunities for German companies and promote economic growth.
In Mauritania, Wadephul is expected to meet with President Mohamed Ghazouani and Foreign Minister Mohamed Merzoug. He will also visit the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, where discussions will focus on tackling extremism and supporting deradicalisation efforts in the conflict-ridden Sahel region.
Germany described Africa as a key partner in political, economic and security matters, stressing the importance of stronger collaboration. Mauritania, which hosts more than 320,000 refugees from neighbouring Mali, is regarded as one of the more stable countries in the Sahel despite persistent regional security challenges.
The tour follows Wappehul’s earlier visits to Kenya and Ethiopia in January, and to Morocco in April, underscoring Germany’s continued engagement with African nations.
