Avraham Neguise’s Ambitious Vision for Strengthening Africa-Israel Ties Amidst Regional Tensions
Avraham Neguise, Israel’s newly appointed ambassador to Ethiopia, is poised to transform Africa-Israel relations with an ambitious vision that aims to strengthen diplomatic ties, boost economic cooperation, and secure Israel’s position within the African Union (AU). As he prepares to present his credentials in early October, Neguise’s mission underscores a pivotal moment in Israel’s foreign policy, particularly in a region where strategic partnerships are increasingly crucial.
With 46 of Africa’s 54 countries maintaining formal diplomatic relations with Israel, Neguise’s primary goal is to expand this network. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously championed African-Israeli relations as a Knesset member and founded the Africa-Israel Caucus. His efforts were instrumental in initiatives like Operation Rock of Israel, which facilitated the immigration of over 3,100 Ethiopians to Israel last year.
In an exclusive interview with The Media Line, Neguise articulated his vision: “Africa needs Israel, and Israel needs Africa.” He highlighted Israel’s technological prowess in sectors such as agriculture, health, and cyber technology, and contrasted this with Africa’s fertile lands and burgeoning population. “The meeting of Israeli technology with African fertile soil,” he said, “could be key to alleviating hunger and poverty.”
Neguise’s appointment aligns with a broader strategy set in motion by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who made historic visits to Africa between 2016 and 2019. These visits marked a renewed emphasis on strengthening ties with African nations. Now, Neguise aims to leverage these relationships further, particularly through his interactions with the AU, headquartered in Ethiopia.
The AU’s role is significant, as it represents a key arena for diplomatic influence. In July 2021, AU Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat granted Israel observer status, a move that has faced opposition but remains pivotal. Neguise sees this as an opportunity to build robust connections with African leaders, which could influence Israel’s standing in international forums such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the United Nations.
Neguise also highlighted recent developments, such as South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ, accusing it of genocide in Gaza. However, he noted that this does not necessarily reflect the views of all South Africans or other Africans, indicating a complex landscape of regional politics.
During the inaugural Africa-Israel Parliamentary Summit in September 2023, held in Addis Ababa, nearly 30 pro-Israel African lawmakers endorsed a resolution supporting Israel and condemning bias against it. This summit marked a significant step in advancing Israel’s diplomatic and economic objectives in Africa.
Neguise’s plans include expanding Israel’s Mashav program, which focuses on training African students and professionals in fields like artificial intelligence and digital innovation. He believes this will not only enhance Africa’s technological capabilities but also stimulate tourism and deepen cultural connections between the two regions.
Although Neguise has transitioned from advocating for Ethiopian aliyah to focusing on broader diplomatic and economic initiatives, he remains deeply connected to the Ethiopian community. He acknowledged the ongoing desire among Ethiopians to immigrate to Israel, noting that while most eligible Jews have already arrived, there are still over 10,000 Ethiopians hoping to join their families in Israel.
As Neguise embarks on this new chapter, he reflects on his personal journey from Ethiopia to Israel, expressing a commitment to making a lasting impact. “I will be here for three years and plan to work hard to make a difference,” he affirmed.
Neguise’s tenure as ambassador promises to be a dynamic period of growth and collaboration, potentially reshaping Africa-Israel relations and setting a new standard for international diplomacy in the region.
