Al-Azhar University: Egypt's Soft Power in Africa

What is it about?

Al-Azhar University is one of the world's oldest and most respected Islamic institutions, and it has become a key tool for Egypt to build influence and partnerships across the African continent. This paper examines how Al-Azhar uses education and religious teaching to strengthen Egypt's connections with African countries and communities. Since Egypt's 2011 revolution, there is broad agreement among Egyptian leaders that Al-Azhar should act independently as a respected voice while also supporting Egypt's political and economic interests on the continent. The study examines two primary questions: What educational and religious initiatives does Al-Azhar currently undertake in Africa? And how can Al-Azhar help Egypt build a stronger, more influential role across Africa in the coming years? Essentially, this paper argues that Al-Azhar is not just a religious institution—it is a powerful instrument through which Egypt can engage with Africa, advance its development goals, and increase its standing as a leader on the continent.

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Photo by Fatih Beki on Unsplash

Photo by Fatih Beki on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Understanding Al-Azhar's role in Africa is crucial because it reveals how Egypt's influence and relationships extend across the continent beyond traditional diplomacy or military power. As African nations seek educational and religious partnerships, Al-Azhar provides a bridge that connects Egypt to millions of students, scholars, and religious leaders across the continent. For Egypt, investing in Al-Azhar's work in Africa strengthens its position as a continental leader and helps advance its political and economic interests. For Africa, Al-Azhar offers quality education and intellectual resources that shape the way young leaders think about Islam, development, and governance. This research matters because it shows how institutions like universities can quietly but powerfully shape international relationships and influence. In a region where African nations are increasingly significant to global politics, understanding how Egypt leverages its cultural and educational assets to foster African partnerships is crucial for anyone studying African geopolitics, Egypt's foreign policy, or the role of Islamic institutions in contemporary international relations.

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