Paper short abstract:

This paper analyzes Anadolu Agency's role in shaping Türkiye's Africa narrative, focusing on Somalia. It examines how Turkish projects and media, particularly Anadolu, reflect Türkiye's ambitions and influence local perceptions, offering a comprehensive view of Türkiye-Africa relations.

Paper long abstract:

This paper critically examines the influential role of Anadolu Agency, Türkiye's leading news organization, in sculpting and broadcasting narratives about Türkiye's diplomatic and development initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a specific emphasis on Somalia. It delves into the portrayal and perception of Africa within the Turkish media landscape, focusing on how Anadolu Agency's narratives not only mirror Türkiye's strategic ambitions in the region but also intertwine with the activities and perceptions of Turkish entities, including corporations, NGOs, and Islamic institutions.

By analyzing recent projects and initiatives, the study aims to uncover the depth of Türkiye's engagement in Africa. It investigates how these endeavors are not mere economic or diplomatic ventures but are also significant components of a larger narrative strategy. This strategy, primarily channeled through Anadolu Agency, serves to shape both domestic and international perceptions of Türkiye's role in Africa.

Furthermore, the paper explores the representation of African nations and events in Turkish media, scrutinizing the portrayal of Turkish endeavors on the continent. It assesses how these depictions influence the perception of Türkiye in African countries, paying close attention to the reception by local communities. By doing so, it seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between media narratives, diplomatic relations, and local receptions.

In essence, this study aims to offer a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted impacts of Türkiye's Africa policy, highlighting the pivotal role of media, particularly Anadolu Agency, in shaping the discourse and understanding of Türkiye-Africa relations.