The African Culture House and Handicrafts Market, a social initiative founded by Türkiye’s First Lady, Emine Erdoğan, was among the exhibitors at the Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF 2025).
The showcase celebrated African creativity and women’s entrepreneurship.
Established in 2016 in Ankara’s historic Hamamönü district, the African Culture House has become a symbol of cultural diplomacy and fair trade between Türkiye and Africa.
It provides a platform for African women artisans to sell handmade crafts at fair prices, with proceeds supporting their livelihoods, education, and health needs.
At this year’s TABEF, the House’s exhibition drew delegates from across Africa and Türkiye. It featured jewellery, sculptures, and home décor crafted by women from about 40 African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
The display celebrated Africa’s diverse cultures and highlighted the deepening ties between Türkiye and the continent.
“We have so many goods from Africa made by women or sold by them because the African Culture House supports African women,” said Hande Gül, a representative of the initiative.
The project reflects Türkiye’s broader Africa Partnership Policy, which extends beyond economics to include culture, education, and women’s empowerment.
“We have books on African traditional foods and a compilation of African proverbs,” Gül added.
Over the years, the African Culture House has hosted cultural exhibitions, seminars, and art talks that bring together African diplomats, Turkish citizens, and African students living in Türkiye.
It continues to serve as a hub for cultural exchange and appreciation while amplifying the voices of African women artisans.
By featuring the African Culture House at TABEF 2025, Türkiye reaffirmed its commitment to a more inclusive and culturally rooted partnership with Africa—one that promotes artistry, fairness, and shared human values.