UNECA Chief Warns of Economic Impact of Middle East Crisis

Kigali, April 9, 2026 - The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete, has warned that ongoing tensions in the Middle East are exerting significant pressure on African economies, particularly through rising energy costs and disruptions to global trade routes.

Speaking at the 58th session of African ministers of finance, planning, and economic development, Gatete emphasized that instability in the region is already affecting oil prices and trade flows, with broader implications for economic stability across the continent.

“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having a negative impact on the energy market and trade in general, and has serious implications,” he said.

Gatete highlighted the vulnerability of many African economies, noting that a large share of petroleum imports-particularly in eastern and southern Africa-originates from the Middle East. Prolonged disruptions, he warned, could force countries to seek alternative supply routes and markets.

He pointed to the strategic importance of global maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that any sustained blockage could reshape international trade patterns. In such a scenario, he argued, Africa could position itself as an alternative corridor for global trade.

Despite the challenges, Gatete also underlined emerging opportunities for the continent. He called on African governments to accelerate structural transformation by prioritizing sustainable development, improving the quality of public investment, and strengthening economic resilience.

He stressed the importance of aligning fiscal policies, debt management, and investment strategies with long-term development goals, while also promoting innovation, technology adoption, and more efficient use of financial resources.

The UNECA chief concluded by urging African countries to turn current global disruptions into opportunities for reform and growth, positioning the continent as a more integrated and competitive player in the global economy.