Al-Takalob Al-Gadid: Al-Qwah Al-Wastah wal Ma’raka min agl  Efriqia – Iran-Turkiya-Roussiyah

The New Rushed Advances: The Medium-Size Powers and the Battle for Africa – Iran, Turkey, and Russia
Author: Hamdi Abdel-Rahman Hassan
Publisher: ElMaraya
Pages: 335

In The New Rushed Advances: The Medium-Size Powers and the Battle for Africa – Iran, Turkey, and Russia, Hamdi Abdel-Rahman Hassan examines how these three nations are establishing hegemonic, rather than balanced, relationships with African countries. Published by ElMaraya, the 335-page book offers a comprehensive exploration of this politically relevant topic: these medium-sized powers' rising strategic interest in Africa.

Hassan delves into the shared and distinct motivations behind Iran, Turkey, and Russia's engagement with Africa, emphasizing how their focus areas differ. He argues that these nations strive to replace the influence of former colonial powers, which historically exploited Africa for labour and resources.

Hassan traces these relationships back centuries. For Iran, connections date to the 10th and 11th centuries, when enslaved Africans were brought to Persia, and Persian traders established settlements along East African ports. Turkey's involvement stems from the Ottoman Empire's imperial presence in North Africa during the 15th and 16th centuries, a legacy that continues to shape its modern policies.

Building on these historical ties, Iran and Turkey have revitalized their connections with Africa, using Islam as a key soft power tool. Hassan notes that Turkey emphasizes outreach through the Ulamas and Sufi movements. At the same time, Iran expands its influence by fostering the Shia community and engaging with its Afro-Iranian population, descendants of formerly enslaved people. The Islamic Republic of Iran and Turkey's Justice and Development Party (AKP) have prioritized strengthening ties with African leaders and states.

Hassan explains that Russia's approach is rooted in its Cold War-era support for African liberation movements. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Vladimir Putin has spearheaded a renewed focus on Africa, initially targeting countries led by officials who studied in Soviet universities. Hassan frames Russia's African strategy as part of a broader geopolitical ambition linked to its actions in Crimea, Syria, Libya, and Ukraine.

The creation of the Russia-Africa Business Council in 2002 marked a turning point in Moscow's efforts. Russia's engagement is bolstered by development forums that emphasize cooperation without the colonial baggage carried by former European powers.

Hassan predicts that competition for influence in Africa will intensify in the coming years, with economic and diplomatic strategies taking centre stage. However, he also foresees the possibility of military elements playing a role, including establishing bases and using pro-state militias.

Estkshaf Konouz wa Athar Al-Sahra’ Al-Sharqiya Al-Masriya

Translation of the Original English Title: Travels in the Upper Egyptian Deserts
Author: Arthur Weigall
Translated by: Samir Mahfouz Beshir
Revision and Introduction: Atef Moa'atamed    

Publisher: Al-Ain
Pages: 252

This book chronicles Arthur Weigall's early 20th-century journeys through Egypt's eastern deserts. Weigall, a British antiquities inspector, recounts his expeditions with friends in vivid detail. While the chapters read like entries from a travel diary, the book offers much more than personal anecdotes.

Weigall provides a nuanced exploration of Pharaonic history, surpassing the typical glorification of ancient Egyptian grandeur. He contrasts the culture and lifestyles of Nile Valley residents with those living on Egypt's remote borders, offering a layered perspective on the region.

Written in an engaging and accessible style, the narrative details camel-back desert treks and inscriptions on ancient ruins. In many ways, it is a precursor to the modern fascination with desert exploration. Alongside its poetic elements, the book is an informative resource, blending historical analysis with cultural insight.