Italy’s “Mattei Plan,” a €5.5 billion investment in Africa, marks a pivotal shift in its foreign policy and economic strategy.
PM Meloni’s plan: €3B from Italian Climate Fund, €2.5B from Development Cooperation Fund, integrates credits, donations, guarantees.
The plan’s objectives are to strengthen ties between Italy and various African nations through projects in education, health, agriculture, water, and energy.
Pilot projects span nine African countries: Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia, Kenya, DRC, and Mozambique.
These projects, driven by 12 Italian companies, focus on renewable energy, professional training, healthcare, and agricultural development.
In Morocco, the plan envisions a major center for training in renewable energy.
In Tunisia, it aims to enhance education and water purification systems.
Egypt’s focus is on boosting agricultural production, while Mozambique looks forward to developing an agro-food center to elevate local products for export.
A key aspect of the Mattei Plan is the creation of a new financial instrument in partnership with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti.
Tool boosts private investments, solidifying Italy’s role linking Africa and Europe, especially in energy.
This significant investment demonstrates Italy’s dedication to promoting sustainable development in Africa.
It aims to tackle challenges such as immigration and economic cooperation, setting the stage for long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.
The plan’s impact is expected to be substantial, potentially transforming the economies and societies of the involved African nations.
This strategic move by Italy underscores the increasing importance of international collaboration in sustainable development, particularly in regions like Africa, where there is immense potential for growth and development.