How Iran Built Influence in Africa Through Religion, Trade and Drones

Iran’s presence in Africa is better understood as a network of connections serving different purposes than as a single, uniform strategy. Religious education, economic ties and security cooperation have played distinct roles across the continent.

In West Africa, universities and Shiite seminaries have been prominent channels of Iranian engagement. This educational and religious presence places institutions at the centre of Tehran’s efforts to develop influence.

The pattern differs in the Horn of Africa, where ports, drones and intelligence coordination have taken greater prominence. These connections give Iran’s engagement there a more strategic and security-focused character.

Economic interests form another part of this wider network. Alongside religious institutions and security relationships, they help explain why Iranian influence cannot be assessed through any one channel alone.

The regional contrast is central to understanding Tehran’s approach. In West Africa, the emphasis has been on universities and seminaries; in the Horn, it has shifted towards maritime access and security coordination. Together, these different strands shape Iran’s African presence.