Turkey is expanding its military training programs across Africa, with soldiers from Mali and Niger recently graduating from a special forces camp in Isparta. This initiative, referred to as the 'Somalia model,' is central to Turkey's strategy to enhance military cooperation with African nations. According to Huseyin Bagci, an international relations professor, this model reflects Turkey's historical approach to military training in Central Asia and is now being applied in Africa. Turkey has established over 20 military training cooperation agreements across the continent, particularly in the Sahel region, where it seeks to fill the void left by France's military withdrawal. The training programs are not only a means of defense diplomacy but also serve to promote Turkish arms, as many trained forces are likely to use Turkish weaponry. Additionally, Turkey's military engagement in Libya supports European interests by stabilizing the region, which is vital for controlling migration routes into Europe. Overall, Turkey's military training initiatives aim to build long-term relationships with African nations, fostering strategic ties and enhancing its influence in the region.