Investment Minister Ashraf Salman said on Tuesday that Egypt's direct investments in Africa amount to some 7.9 billion dollars.

Those are private sector investments, mainly in the fields of construction and chemical industries, Salman said during a press conference to review preparations for an Africa investment summit to be held in Sharm el Sheikh on February 20-21.

Africa has become of big importance to world investors, Salman said. The Egyptian government is, as well, giving priority to Africa, he added.

Investing in Africa is an Egyptian commitment meant to boost partnership and cooperation with African countries, the minister noted.