UAE issues rare denial of 'imperial ambitions' in Africa
UAE issues rare denial of 'imperial ambitions' in Africa Submitted by MEE staff on Mon, 08/17/2026 - 18:53 Expert says UAE's denial contains 'flawed logic', as it bolsters militias and scoops up key assets in Africa This handout picture, released by the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on 30 October 2025, shows RSF members reportedly detaining a fighter known as Abu Lulu (L) in El-Fasher, in…
UAE issues rare denial of imperial ambitions in Africa
The UAE has responded to a Financial Times article claiming its growing influence in Africa is driven by imperial ambitions. Director of Strategic Communications Afra al-Hameli dismissed the claim as patronising and flawed, stating that partnerships with African governments are not evidence of imperial ambitions. The UAE's expansion in Africa is evident through its involvement in ports, logistics, agriculture, mining, finance, and security interests.
However, the UAE continues to deny its support for Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which has been accused of committing genocide during the war. The FT investigation revealed that UAE-based security firms recruited and deployed Colombian mercenaries to fight alongside the RSF, and facilitated the transfer of 1.5 tonnes of gold bullion from Sudan to the UAE via Chad and South Sudan.
Despite the UAE's denial, experts argue that the country's investments in Africa are both strategic and politically motivated.
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