Qatar has unveiled an ambitious $103 billion investment plan across six African nations, marking one of the Gulf state’s largest-ever international expansion efforts.
Spearheaded by Al Mansour Holdings, the initiative targets sectors from energy and agriculture to critical minerals and infrastructure — underscoring Doha’s shift away from hydrocarbon dependence. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to receive the largest share — $21 billion — focused on mining, hydrocarbons, and agriculture. Mozambique will follow with $20 billion, while Zambia and Zimbabwe secure $19 billion each. Botswana and Burundi will receive $12 billion apiece, according to Oxford Economics Africa.
This bold pledge arrives amid growing Gulf competition for influence in Africa, as the region offers what Qatar lacks: arable land, critical minerals like lithium and cobalt, and fast-growing markets. In return, Qatar provides capital, energy expertise, and geopolitical backing. Qatar’s investments could help African nations reduce reliance on raw exports. For instance, Botswana hopes to buffer its economy from fluctuating diamond prices, while the DRC may finally unlock its mineral wealth.
The Qatari investment firm’s leader and royal family member, Sheikh Mansour bin Jabor bin Jassim Al Thani, has recently pledged $70 billion in investments for projects spanning energy, agriculture, tourism and mining. across the four southern Africa countries in a 10-day tour. Still, execution is key. Oxford Economics cautions that governance, transparency, and infrastructure bottlenecks — especially in Zimbabwe and the DRC — could hinder progress. Still, as Western influence recedes under shifting U.S. priorities, Qatar’s Africa push may reshape alliances and economies alike. Whether this moment marks transformation or familiar unmet promise will depend on delivery.