African states hope the Gulf crisis will end soon

Significance

The split between Qatar and its neighbours has pushed a few small African countries to side with Saudi Arabia, but leaves the continent’s leading powers and several conflict-afflicted nations eager to stay neutral -- for now. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) -- where Gulf countries have strong diplomatic ties and major economic investments -- the crisis has had significant political effects.

Impacts

• The withdrawal of Qatari peacekeepers from the Djibouti-Eritrea border will become a pressing concern for the African Union.
• Ongoing expulsions of African migrants from Saudi Arabia will complicate Saudi and Emirati efforts to find African partners against Qatar.
• Countries such as South Africa and Nigeria may begin to act more assertively in calling for neutrality.