France and Italy are reshaping their economic strategies towards Africa, aiming to enhance their influence on the continent as global dynamics shift. This rivalry presents an opportunity for the European Union to strengthen its partnership with African nations.

In recent years, France and Italy have significantly altered their economic approaches to Africa, competing for greater influence as the continent gains prominence on the global stage. The G20’s historic meeting in Africa in November 2025 underscored this shift, highlighting the increasing importance of African nations as economic partners amid rising competition from China and the United Arab Emirates.

Both countries have hosted major summits to foster relationships with African leaders, with Italy’s Africa Summit in Addis Ababa and France’s Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi marking pivotal moments in their diplomatic efforts. This shift reflects a broader trend among European nations, with at least nine countries revising their Africa policies since 2020 to recognize the continent’s potential beyond mere resource supply.

Despite being the largest trading partner for Africa, the EU’s individual member states are struggling to maintain their competitive edge. European investments, while substantial, are increasingly overshadowed by those from China and Gulf states. The focus on extractive industries rather than transformative investments poses a challenge, as European firms must adapt to meet the evolving demands of African economies, which are seeking equitable partnerships rather than traditional aid.