THE ‘RUSSIA–AFRICA’ SUMMIT 2023. SELECT COUNTRIES

(published in 2023)

The study demonstrates that the Russian Federation’s strategy in Africa following the 2023 summit is taking on a more structured, though not systematic, character. A key feature is the clear stratification of countries by priority (1–4), which effectively reflects the gradation of the Russian Federation’s interests and opportunities for influence.

At the first level (countries of the peace initiative regarding Ukraine), it is evident that the Russian Federation is working not so much to exert control as to use these states as diplomatic intermediaries and channels for legitimising its position. Even among them, however:

• some are balancing (Egypt, Senegal),

• some are diversifying risks (South Africa, Uganda),

• some express limited criticism without breaking ties.

This indicates the absence of a stable political core of support.

The second tier (regional leaders) presents an even more complex picture:

• even even formal partners (Algeria) are guided by their own economic interests,

• most countries are balancing between Russia, the West and China,

• some are distancing themselves (Kenya).

In other words, Russia is not forming a bloc here, but merely competing for influence in an open environment.

The third tier (the majority of the continent) is explicitly defined as ‘balancing countries’, which is a key signal: Russia’s positions in these countries are unstable and situational, dependent on external factors (sanctions, competition, the domestic situation).

The fourth tier is effectively the Russian Federation’s zone of support (Mali, the Central African Republic, Eritrea, etc.), but:

• these are predominantly weak or unstable states,

• dependence on Russia is shaped by security considerations rather than the economy.

This creates an asymmetry: the higher the level of Russian influence, the weaker the partner state.

In terms of instruments of influence:

1. The political and humanitarian bloc — establishes a basic presence (education, media, healthcare), but:

   • it has limited coverage,

   • is not backed by economic clout.

2. The economic sector is moving from declarations to concrete projects (logistics, energy, nuclear power), but:

   • it remains fragmented,

   • it does not create systemic integration.

3. The military sector — the most effective:

   • focuses on unstable countries,

   • combined with access to resources,

   • is accompanied by an institutional presence (embassies, visa regimes).

An important systemic signal: military presence is used as a substitute for economic weakness.

A structural constraint is noted separately:

• sanctions,

• logistics (high cost, complexity),

• dependence on global transport systems.

This means that even if African countries are politically willing to cooperate, implementation is limited by infrastructure and financial constraints.

Conclusions:

1. Russia’s strategy in Africa is hierarchical but not systematic.

Moscow clearly understands the priorities of the countries, but is unable to translate this into a coherent continental architecture of influence.

2. Africa is used as a diplomatic and political resource (particularly regarding Ukraine), rather than as a self-sufficient economic sphere.

First-tier countries serve as a tool for legitimisation and negotiating leverage.

3. The Russian Federation’s economic weakness is a key constraint.

Even where projects exist, they remain isolated and do not create a critical mass of influence.

4. The military component is becoming the primary instrument of consolidation.

Russia is forming an “archipelago of influence” through unstable countries, compensating for the lack of economic integration.

5. Most of Africa adopts a balancing stance.

This means that the Russian Federation is not forming an alliance, but is operating in an environment of constant competition (particularly with China and the West).

6. The Russian Federation’s strategic model is deferred.

First: politics + security → then: access to resources → and only potentially: economic integration.

Key conclusion: Russia is not building a comprehensive system of influence in Africa — it is creating a network of focal points (security + politics) designed to compensate for limitations and preserve global agency, but which does not yet provide a long-term competitive advantage.

RUSSIA’S INFLUENCE ON SPECIFIC AFRICAN COUNTRIES.

– INTRODUCTORY DATA

– OVERVIEW OF THE SUMMIT’S OUTCOMES BY AREA OF INFLUENCE.

– OVERVIEW BY INDIVIDUAL COUNTRIES:

• PRIORITY AREAS 1.

(Republic of the Congo, Uganda, South Africa, Egypt, Senegal, Zambia, Union of the Comoros).

• PRIORITY 2.

(Algeria, Angola, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Libya, Nigeria, Kenya).

• PRIORITY 3.

(Burkina Faso, Burundi, Guinea, Sudan, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, Madagascar, Morocco, Mozambique, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Benin, Botswana, The Gambia, Djibouti, DRC, Cape Verde, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mauritania, Niger, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Seychelles, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Tunisia, Chad).

• PRIORITY AREA 4.

(Zimbabwe, Mali, CAR, Eritrea, Namibia, Tanzania, Togo, Eswatini, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Malawi).

OVERALL CONCLUSION.

INTRODUCTORY DATA

Note 1: some African countries are marked with ↑ or ↓ arrows — this means that the country in question:

• is among the top 10 richest countries in Africa (↑) — Seychelles↑, Mauritius↑, Equatorial Guinea↑, Gabon↑, Botswana↑, South Africa↑, Libya↑, Namibia↑, Eswatini↑, Tunisia↑.

• is among the top 17 poorest countries in Africa (↓) — Burundi↓, Somalia↓, Mozambique↓, CAR↓, Madagascar↓, Sierra Leone↓, DRC↓, Eritrea↓, Malawi↓, Liberia↓, Guinea-Bissau↓, The Gambia↓, Mali↓, Burkina Faso↓, Togo↓, South Sudan↓, Republic of Guinea↓.

Note 2: Russia’s main trading partners in Africa (top 10 – ₱/10):

• Egypt (₱/1), Algeria (₱/2), Morocco (₱/3), Senegal (₱/4), South Africa↑ (₱/5), Nigeria (₱/6), Tunisia↑ (₱/7), Uganda (₱/8), Côte d’Ivoire (₱/8) and Kenya (₱/10).

The remaining 44 countries on the continent collectively account for less than one-fifth of Russia’s trade with Africa. The limited scope of Russia’s opportunities is evidenced by the volume of its trade with Africa. In 2022, it amounted to just $18 billion. Trade between the continent’s countries and China, for example, stands at $282 billion.

Note 3: Russia’s allies that make overtly public gestures towards Russia are marked with the symbol ℗:

• Algeria(₱/2)℗, Zimbabwe℗, Mali↓℗, CAR↓℗, Eritrea↓℗.

Next, we will consider the category of priorities. A remark regarding research priorities:

Priority 1.

– countries participating in the peace initiative regarding Ukraine are considered (Republic of the Congo, Uganda(₱/8), South Africa↑(₱/5), Egypt (₱/1), Senegal (₱/4), Zambia, Union of the Comoros).

Priority 2.

– countries that are members of regional organisations are considered, i.e. those that carry a certain weight and influence at the global and regional levels, which accordingly increases Russia’s interest in them (Algeria(₱/2)℗, Angola, Gabon↑, Equatorial Guinea↑, Libya↑, Nigeria (₱/6), Kenya).

Priority 3.

– consideration is given to the so-called ‘balancing countries’ (the majority of the continent), whose position is not stable and may change depending on circumstances (Burkina Faso↓, Burundi↓, Guinea↓, Sudan, Guinea-Bissau↓, Cameroon, Madagascar↓, Morocco(₱/3), Mozambique↓, Ethiopia, South Sudan↓, Benin, Botswana↑, The Gambia↓, Djibouti, DRC↓, Cape Verde, Lesotho, Mauritius↑, Mauritania, Niger, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Seychelles↑, Somalia↓, Sierra Leone↓, Tunisia↑(₱/7), Chad).

Priority 4.

– countries that have previously demonstrated a fairly stable position are under consideration (Zimbabwe℗, Mali↓℗, CAR↓℗, Eritrea↓℗, Namibia↑, Tanzania, Togo↓, Eswatini↑, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia↓, Malawi↓).

OVERVIEW OF THE SUMMIT’S OUTCOMES

It was initially expected that delegations from 49 African countries (out of 54) would take part in the Russia-Africa Summit, including 17 at the level of heads of state. It later emerged that the number of participants at the Russia-Africa Summit had been reduced due to the alleged work schedules of some leaders. This was stated to journalists by the press secretary of the President of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Peskov. Consequently, based on the summit’s outcome, it can be stated that there is no information regarding the attendance at the forum of representatives from the following countries: Benin, Botswana↑, Cape Verde, Lesotho, Mauritius↑, Niger, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone↓, Liberia↓.

In addition to the global and regional agenda (see Part 1), the summit discussed bilateral relations between African countries and Russia. It is worth noting that most of the projects planned for implementation in individual countries were discussed in the conditional tense as future intentions for subsequent periods, once certain difficulties had been overcome. Sanctions and logistics are most frequently cited among these difficulties.

As is well known, most non-Western countries do not support the West’s sanctions against Russia, but are forced to comply with them to avoid falling under secondary sanctions from both the US and, now, the EU (the mechanism is set out in the 11th sanctions package of 23 June 2023 ).

As for logistics, most multinational companies, notably Maersk and CMA CGM, have ceased operations in Russia and no longer accept orders for container deliveries from Russian exporters. African countries are actively working to develop modern port infrastructure and increase throughput capacity. Key ports include Suez (Egypt), Durban (South Africa), Mombasa (Kenya), as well as Lagos (Nigeria) and Beira (Mozambique). None of the ports has officially suspended operations with Russian cargo, but Russian companies often face the need to provide additional documents confirming the origin of the cargo. At the same time, logistics within the continent itself remain costly — on average 63% more expensive than in developed countries. Experts also note the complex customs clearance process, which involves 20–30 authorities and requires up to 45 different documents to clear cargo. Etc.

Next, we will examine the actions actually taken, categorised by sector and country, which have been publicly reported. We will highlight the sectors in which specific decisions have been made in individual countries. These include Media, Information Security, Healthcare, Education, Sport (political influence), Freight Transport, Customs, Railways, Nuclear Energy, Water Resources (economic influence), Military Influence and Presence.

Let us examine these in more detail, then —

Political (humanitarian) influence

The coverage presented in the tables indicates a fairly broad but unevenly distributed humanitarian and institutional influence of the Russian Federation in Africa. Geographically, it covers a number of regions (West, Central and East Africa), but is predominantly of a piecemeal nature — through individual countries and bilateral formats, without the formation of a coherent continental network. The education sector is the most systematically represented (quotas, centres, staff training), creating long-term ties, whilst information security and media cooperation have a more selective but strategically important reach.

Functionally, this set of tools resembles a ‘basic presence package’: information control (through the Ministry of Information Policy and the media), the cultivation of elites (through education), humanitarian legitimisation (through medicine) and socio-cultural penetration (sport). At the same time, the scope of these instruments is limited — they do not cover a critical mass of countries and are not accompanied by sufficient economic backing, which limits their effectiveness.

Thus, the scope can be assessed as broad in terms of direction but limited in depth and scale: the Russian Federation is establishing a multi-vector presence, yet it remains fragmented and dependent on individual partners, failing to reach the level of systematic continental influence.

Media. (see Fig. 1)

Information security (see Fig. 2)

Healthcare (see Fig. 3)

Education. (see Fig. 4)

Sport. (see Fig. 5)

Economic impact

The economic and infrastructure dimension of Russian policy in Africa in 2023 is taking on a more structured form through specific projects and agreements, yet remains fragmented in scale. Several key areas are taking shape: logistics (Egypt (₱/1) — development of Fesco transport services), infrastructure (Ghana — RZD railway projects), energy (Mozambique↓ — the ‘Lurio-2’ hydroelectric power station, Morocco (₱/3) — water projects, as well as a nuclear power unit: Burundi↓, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe℗ — cooperation with Rosatom), and institutional (Ethiopia — customs coordination). This indicates an attempt by the Russian Federation to establish the basic elements of its economic presence through infrastructure, energy and regulatory cooperation.

At the same time, these initiatives do not form a unified system, but remain a set of individual projects tied to specific countries and sectors. They do not ensure full integration into the continent’s economy, but create entry points into strategically important sectors — logistics, energy and transport — which could potentially be used to further expand influence.

Thus, the Russian Federation’s economic strategy in Africa demonstrates a shift from declarative intentions to targeted practical implementation; however, its nature remains limited and compensatory: Moscow is establishing individual nodes of presence but is not yet capable of assembling them into a coherent continental architecture of influence.

Freight transport (see Fig. 6)

Customs (see Fig. 7)

Railways (see Fig. 8)

Water resources (see Fig. 9)

Nuclear energy (see Fig. 10)

Military influence and presence

The military and security dimension of Russian policy in Africa in 2023 demonstrates a clear focus on establishing specific spheres of influence through bilateral cooperation with individual states. The most active dynamics are observed in countries with heightened levels of instability — Burkina Faso↓, Mali↓℗, CAR↓℗, DRC↓, where Russia combines military contacts (negotiations at the level of defence ministries, support for defence capabilities) with the expansion of its physical and institutional presence (reopening of embassies, aviation agreements, security frameworks). This allows Moscow to establish itself as a key security partner in countries with limited alternatives.

In parallel, a supporting infrastructure for its presence is being established: visa facilitation (Cameroon, DRC↓), the development of aviation cooperation (Burkina Faso↓, CAR↓℗), as well as the linking of security influence to economic interests (Tanzania — uranium projects). This indicates an attempt by the Russian Federation to integrate the military component with economic and logistical instruments, creating more sustainable formats of interaction.

Thus, Russia’s military influence in Africa is asymmetrical and nodal in nature: it does not cover the continent systematically, but forms a network of footholds in strategically important countries. It is through these points that Moscow seeks to compensate for the limitations of its economic presence, consolidating its status as a security actor and creating a basis for further expansion of influence.

It may also be added that, by all accounts, Russia plans to expand its military presence (both regular armed forces and private military companies, disguised as soldiers, instructors, military specialists or security organisations, etc.) in countries such as Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the DRC, Tanzania, the CAR, and Mali, including for the purpose of controlling the extraction of specific minerals (including uranium), as there is a clear link between expansion in the defence sector (military-technical cooperation, defence cooperation issues) and the conclusion of agreements on the abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic or service passports, the resumption of embassy activities (legalisation of presence) and airworthiness documents (air links). (see Fig. 11)

CONCLUSION

As the analysis shows, Russia is currently unable to establish a significant economic presence in Africa through the implementation of major investment projects, which is leading to a gradual decline in its economic influence on the continent. In response, Moscow is shifting its focus to political and security instruments: expanding its informational influence through media agreements and strengthening military-technical cooperation with individual states, thereby establishing a targeted yet sustainable presence.

At the same time, this model has a deferred economic payoff. Strengthening military influence and political presence creates the conditions for future access to the continent’s resource base, particularly in strategic sectors (uranium, lithium, etc.), amidst growing global competition between the West and China. Thus, the Russian Federation’s current strategy appears to be an attempt to lay the political and security foundations for future economic influence, compensating for existing constraints on resources and investment opportunities.

COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY OVERVIEW.

Below is more detailed information (a brief overview) on each country individually within the specified ‘Priorities’ categories to provide an understanding of the overall picture of Russia’s challenges on the African continent.

The overview consists of a summary of the main public messages and signals from the parties (African countries and Russia) on the following points:

• Composition of delegations;

• The parties’ interests;

• Military influence (where clearly present);

• Outcome.

PRIORITY 1.

Seven African heads of state are taking part in a peace mission to find ways to resolve the Ukrainian crisis: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union Azali Assoumani, President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso, President of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Senegal Macky Sall, President of Zambia Hakainde Hichilema, and President of Egypt Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Of the seven countries representing the peace initiative, four are among Russia’s top ten main partners in Africa: Egypt (₱/1), Senegal (₱/4), South Africa↑(₱/5) and Uganda (₱/8). (see Fig. 12)

Republic of the Congo

Composition:

President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso, Congolese Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Claude Hakoso.

Interests

Russia and the Republic of the Congo have expressed interest in expanding cooperation in the military-technical sphere and in jointly establishing a laboratory for the study and prevention of dangerous infectious diseases.

Russia and the Republic of the Congo plan to sign a memorandum in 2023 on the construction of a petroleum products pipeline in the African country with the involvement of a Russian company (a project to build a pipeline between the African country’s largest cities — Pointe-Noire and the capital, Brazzaville). The agreement is in the final stages of preparation. On the Russian side, the company ‘ZNGS-Prometey’ has expressed interest in the project.

Russia plans to establish production of vaccines and medicines relevant to Central Africa in the Republic of the Congo. A hub is currently being set up in the Congo, where not only vaccines but also medicines will be produced; this is a project of the St Petersburg Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums.

St Petersburg is ready to cooperate with the Republic of the Congo in the field of education, in particular regarding the organisation of joint video lessons in schools and the hosting of Congolese schoolchildren in the Northern capital during the holidays.

Results

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and Editor-in-Chief of the Central African News Agency (Republic of the Congo) Emile Gankama signed a memorandum of cooperation.

Note: The Central African News Agency is the flagship media outlet of the Republic of Congo’s large media group ‘Bassin du Congo – CA’. The agency has offices in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, Kinshasa, Rome, Brussels and Paris. It publishes regional news via the daily newspapers Les Dépêches de Brazzaville and Le Courrier de Kinshasa, as well as on its website and mobile app.

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and the Chair of the Congolese Information Agency (Republic of the Congo), Olga Rachel Mangwanda, signed a memorandum of cooperation. The parties plan to develop projects for the development of media portals.

Note: The Congolese Information Agency (ACI) is the state news agency of the Republic of the Congo and assists the Ministry of Communications and Mass Media in carrying out its duties in this field. The agency is the official source of news in the Congo.

Uganda (₱/8)

Ranked 8th among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Note: In eighth place is the Republic of Uganda. Russian-Ugandan trade turnover in 2021 amounted to $431.7 million (2.4%), an increase of 55% compared to 2020 and almost sevenfold compared to 2019. This growth is primarily due to the fulfilment of contracts for the supply of arms. The main items of Russian exports also include wheat, bituminous mixtures, mineral fertilisers and spare parts for aircraft. Imports consist mainly of agricultural products: cashew nuts, tea, coffee, spices and tobacco. Russia’s trade surplus stands at $383.8 million

Composition:

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, accompanied by a high-level delegation from the country.

Note: On 17 June 2023, due to illness, the President of Uganda sent his special representative, Ruhakana Rugunda, to St Petersburg to take his place at the talks.

Interest

Ofwono Opondo, a representative of the African country’s government, stated that military-technical cooperation (MTC) and technology transfer, security, the oil and gas industry, and agriculture are priorities for Uganda in its relations with Russia.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni is discussing with Russian importers the increase in coffee supplies to the Russian Federation.

During a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni stated that Uganda and Russia could establish cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector and jointly develop vaccines and diagnostic methods.

A preliminary design for an Orthodox church complex, which is planned to be built in Uganda, was one of the key exhibits presented at the stand of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa of the Russian Orthodox Church at the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit. It is envisaged that the complex, to be located near Lake Victoria, will become a symbol of cooperation between Russia and Africa, as well as a major centre of Russian culture on the continent.

Military influence

Uganda wants to expand the country’s existing service centre for Russian-made helicopters, becoming Africa’s largest hub for their repair and maintenance, as well as for the promotion of Russian aerospace technologies (Ugandan government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo).

Background: In 2022, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni officially opened a service centre for Russian-made helicopters in Nakasongola. The Ugandan authorities’ aim is to establish the centre as the main helicopter operator in East Africa. In particular, the centre is planned to service Russian-made helicopters used in UN operations in the region. The establishment of such a centre is part of Uganda’s economic development programme. Repairing helicopters domestically saves up to $3.5 million per aircraft, as there is no need for costly transport to facilities in other countries.

Results

Anna Popova, Head of Rospotrebnadzor, and Jane Ruth Aseng, Uganda’s Minister of Health, took part in the handover of a mobile laboratory for testing for infections to the African nation.

South Africa ↑ (₱/5)

Ranked among Russia’s top 10 partners in Africa — 5th place.

Note: South Africa ranks fifth ($1.139 billion; 6.4% of Russian-African trade). The increase in trade turnover compared to 2020 was 16% ($981 million). Russia’s exports to South Africa amounted to $342.2 million, while imports stood at $796.9 million. Russia exported chemical industry products (54%), mineral products (18%), timber and pulp and paper products (9%), and foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials (8%). The import structure was dominated by food and agricultural products (43%), mineral products (21.5%), and machinery, equipment and transport vehicles (18%). Statistics for 2022 were not published, but Russian officials noted in their statements that, by the end of 2022, bilateral trade had increased by a further 16.4% to $1.3 billion.

Composition:

A South African delegation led by the country’s President Cyril Ramaphosa; the delegation included Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor, as well as South Africa’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation Mzuvukile Jeff Maketuku.

Note: The high-ranking guest will not be able to attend the Main Naval Parade, which will take place on 30 July.

Interest

Sber supports South Africa’s plans to establish an artificial intelligence institute and intends to sign a memorandum of cooperation on the development of artificial intelligence technologies.

The Russian company Unigreen Energy intends to begin construction of a solar park in South Africa in the first quarter of 2024, said the company’s CEO, Igor Shakhray; commissioning is scheduled for early 2025. The company is also planning to build other facilities in the country. Shakhray added that financing is one of the constraints for operating in African countries. We do not work with the BRICS Bank at all. We hope that with the bank’s new president we will be able to do so, as it is quite difficult to secure financing for projects in Africa.

The Republic of South Africa needs to modernise existing power stations and build new ones, and is counting on cooperation with Russia in this area.

Results

No specific results have been published.

Egypt (₱/1)

Ranked 1st among Russia’s top 10 trading partners in Africa.

Note: The Arab Republic of Egypt traditionally leads in terms of trade turnover with the Russian Federation among the countries of the African continent. According to the results of 2021, it accounted for 26.9% of Russia’s total trade with Africa, or $4.8 billion (data from the Federal Customs Service of the Russian Federation). At the same time, exports from Russia to Egypt reached $4.2 billion, while imports stood at $592 million. Almost 40% of Russian exports consisted of cereals; in addition, copper and copper products, timber and wood products, goods for restricted use, fats and oils, and ferrous metals were exported. 77% of imports consisted of fruit, nuts and vegetables; electrical machinery and equipment, clothing and plastics were also imported. The FCS does not disclose more recent data; however, according to the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, in 2022 trade turnover between Russia and Egypt grew by a further 30%, reaching over $6 billion.

Composition:

The Egyptian delegation led by the President of the Arab Republic, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. [

Interests

Relations have been developing for 80 years and continue to strengthen every year thanks to major joint projects, including the construction by the Russian company Rosatom of Egypt’s first nuclear power plant, El Dabaa, the supply of 1,300 passenger carriages for the national railways by the domestic contractor Transmashholding, and the creation of a Russian industrial zone.

Construction of the infrastructure for the Russian Industrial Zone (RIZ) in Egypt could begin as early as 2023. In March 2023, Russia and Egypt signed a protocol amending the agreement on the Russian Industrial Zone, which will allow resident companies to sell products manufactured within the RIZ on the Egyptian market. At the time, the press service of the Ministry of Industry and Trade clarified that construction of facilities within the SPZ would begin in 2024.

Background: An intergovernmental agreement between the Russian Federation and Egypt on the creation of a special zone with a preferential tax regime for Russian resident enterprises in eastern Port Said was concluded in 2018. Full implementation of the project is scheduled to take 13 years. It was planned that resident companies would receive a rent holiday, preferential energy tariffs, a special preferential tax regime, as well as a ready-built site. Construction of the industrial zone was scheduled to begin in 2020, but the timeline has been pushed back due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

AvtoVAZ plans to resume the assembly of Lada cars in Egypt. In particular, it is hoped that Egypt and its partner Al Amal could become a transport and logistics hub for the rest of the African continent. The company is also considering cooperation with other African countries, notably Algeria. [

AvtoVAZ’s Egyptian partner, Al Amal, is keen to resume and develop cooperation with the Russian manufacturer

Background: AvtoVAZ began exporting cars to Egypt as early as 1988. In 2001, a full-cycle plant was established there, where cars were assembled, welded and painted. During this time, around 95,000 car kits were supplied.

Russia and Egypt have agreed to increase energy supplies and expand the participation of Russian oil and gas companies in new projects. The ministry will be able to announce the specific details once the companies have signed the contracts.

Dalreftrans (part of the Fesco Group) will begin transporting agricultural products, such as citrus fruits and potatoes, from Egypt to Russia from the end of November 2023. The volume of container traffic with Egypt following the launch of the direct sea route is expected to reach 30,000 TEU per year.

Results

The Fesco Transport Group, in conjunction with the Russian-Egyptian Business Council (REBC), will develop the group’s transport and logistics services in Egypt. The relevant agreement was signed during the Russia–Africa Summit by Andrey Grechkin, CEO of Dalreftrans (a subsidiary of Fesco), and Mikhail Orlov, Chairman of the REB. According to the document, the parties agreed to facilitate the establishment of contacts with cargo owners and representatives of relevant Egyptian government bodies, as well as to undertake research into the African country’s cargo base.

Senegal (₱/4)

Ranked 4th among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Note: According to figures for 2021, Senegal is Russia’s fourth-largest trading partner on the continent and the largest among sub-Saharan African countries. Trade turnover between the two countries amounted to $1.2 billion (6.9% of the total for the continent), a 2.5-fold increase compared to the previous year (2020 ). At the same time, Russian exports to Senegal amounted to $1.221 billion, while imports from Senegal stood at $3.6 million. The bulk of Russian exports consisted of mineral fuels (84%), with cereals (8%), ferrous metals (3%) and fertilisers (1.3%) also being supplied. Russia purchased vegetables and root crops (68%), nuts and fruit (13%), and copper and copper products (17%). By the end of 2022, the country ranked first for the second consecutive year in terms of trade turnover with Russia among sub-Saharan African nations. It reached nearly $1.5 billion.

Line-up:

Senegalese President Macky Sall with his delegation.

Areas of interest

The Senegalese Ministry of Culture is working on a cooperation agreement with Russia in the field of cinematography, as well as on joint film production. Coly noted that, culturally speaking, Senegal and Russia are linked by an agreement between the two countries. Koli also invited Russian filmmakers to take part in the Dakar Court short film festival, which will take place in Dakar in December.

Senegal intends to step up efforts to develop cooperation with the Republic of Tatarstan as one of the regions of the Russian Federation; in particular, there is huge demand for cooperation with KAMAZ.

Russia is ready to assist Senegal in training athletes — provided they require such assistance.

In the 2023–2024 academic years, the Russian Federation will increase the quota for Senegalese students to 75 scholarships.

Results

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and the head of the Senegalese Press Agency, Thierno Amadou Sy, signed a memorandum of cooperation.

Note: The Senegalese State Press Agency (APS) has a monopoly on the dissemination of information within the country, including reports from the international media.

Zambia

Composition:

The Zambian delegation, led by the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stanley Kakubo.

Interests

During a telephone conversation, the Foreign Ministers of Russia and Zambia confirmed their countries’ readiness to expand cooperation within the UN and other multilateral forums. The ministers also discussed the strengthening of mutually beneficial trade, economic and investment ties.

Results

No information on specific results has been published.

Union of the Comoros

Composition:

A delegation from the Union of the Comoros led by the country’s president and Chairperson of the African Union, Azali Assoumani.

Interest

Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also held a telephone conversation with Assoumani. During the conversation, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing a constructive and cooperative dialogue in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres.

Results

No information regarding specific results has been published.

PRIORITY OF ATTENTION 2

African countries belonging to regional unions (see Fig. 13)

Algeria℗ (₱/2)

Ranked 2nd among Russia’s top 10 trading partners in Africa.

Note: Algeria ranks second after Egypt in Russian-African trade. According to the Federal Customs Service of the Russian Federation, trade turnover between the two countries in 2021 amounted to $3 billion (17% of the total trade volume with countries on the continent), an increase of 3.2% compared to 2020. Russian exports ($2.989 billion, almost 99% of the total trade volume) are dominated by machinery, equipment and transport vehicles (around 66%), foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials (22.33%). Russia mainly imports foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials (71.7%), as well as chemical industry products (11.77%). Cooperation is coordinated by the Russian-Algerian Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation and the Russian-Algerian Business Council.

Composition:

A delegation led by the Prime Minister of Algeria, Aiman Benabderrahman.

Note: Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune was in Russia on a state visit in June. On 16 June, Tebboune took part in the plenary session of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. Following the state meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Algerian leader, a declaration on an enhanced strategic partnership between the two countries was signed.

Earlier, Algeria had applied to join BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), as well as applying to become a shareholder in the New Development Bank (NDB), established by the group’s member states.

Interests

Gazprom plans to commence hydrocarbon production at the El Assel field in Algeria in 2026. Overall, Russia and Algeria have agreed to expand the presence of Russian companies in gas production projects in Algeria.

Background: Gazprom and the Algerian state oil and gas corporation Sonatrach are jointly developing the El Assel field in Algeria. Gazprom International was the operator of this project during the geological exploration phase. Gazprom holds a 49% stake in the project, while Sonatrach holds 51%.

Algeria and Russia have promising prospects for cooperation in the field of space exploration. These are the areas of space exploration and the use of space technologies in which Africa is particularly interested. This primarily concerns telecommunications.

The Algerian wine producer Grands Crus intends to enter the Russian market, which it considers promising.

Note: Following the start of the special military operation in Ukraine, several of the world’s largest alcohol producers, including Pernod Ricard (Chivas Regal, Jameson, Absolut, Ararat), Diageo (Bell’s, Captain Morgan, Baileys) and Bacardi (Bacardi, Dewar’s, William Lawson’s), have suspended sales in the Russian Federation or announced their withdrawal from the country.

Results

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and the head of the Algerian news agency ‘Alger Press Service’, Samir Gaid, signed a memorandum of cooperation.

Note: Alger Press Service is Algeria’s state news agency, which supplies domestic and international news to the press, radio and television in Algeria.

Angola

Composition:

Angolan delegation led by Foreign Minister Tete António.

Note: In January this year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited the republic. The head of the Russian Foreign Ministry held talks with António and invited him to pay a return visit to Russia. Prior to this, the Angolan Foreign Minister had visited Moscow in 2021.

Interests

Russia and Angola have agreed to speed up the finalisation of documents on cooperation in the fields of nuclear energy, trade and other sectors.

Tatarstan’s experience in oil refining is of interest to Angola, as the country wishes to improve not only the efficiency of its oil production but also the quality of its refining. Angola is one of Africa’s largest oil-producing countries, but it exports the majority of its output. The country is interested in developing cooperation in sectors such as the exploration and extraction of hydrocarbon resources.

Angola is interested in developing agriculture and cooperation in the agri-food sector.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Gabon↑

Background: Gabon is a former French colony; since gaining independence in 1960, the country has remained one of the most stable on the continent. The Republic ranks fourth in terms of GDP per capita in Africa. This has been facilitated by rich oil reserves and foreign investment. The country is a member of OPEC+.

Composition:

A Gabonese delegation led by Foreign Minister Herman Imongo has arrived at the summit.

Interest

Gabonese officials have previously expressed interest in expanding Russian-Gabonese cooperation, with a focus on trade, economic, investment and humanitarian spheres.

Results

No information on specific outcomes has been made public.

Equatorial Guinea ↑

Composition:

Vice-President Teodoro Ihema Obiang Mange and his delegation.

Interests

The country is interested in attracting partners to develop oil blocks and, possibly, diamonds.

Note: In 2019, Lukoil and Rosgeologia signed memoranda of understanding with the Ministry of Mining and Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea.

Responding to a question about Equatorial Guinea’s plans for oil production, Ondo said that the country is working to attract investment in hydrocarbon exploration and production within the country, but in the oil production sector it will take decisions aimed at maintaining the stability of the oil market.

Russia and Equatorial Guinea discussed cooperation between the two countries within the framework of OPEC+, as well as within the framework of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) in the fields of oil production, geological exploration and the electricity sector.

The Russian side is interested in cooperation in the field of standardisation and conformity assessment of oil and gas equipment.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific outcomes.

Libya↑

Composition:

A Libyan delegation led by the head of the country’s Presidential Council, Mohammed al-Menfi.

Note: It was previously reported that Russia is resuming the work of its embassy in Tripoli and plans to open a consulate-general in Libya’s second-largest city, Benghazi. Moscow expects that the restoration of its diplomatic presence in Libya will help advance the Russian Federation’s economic interests. On 26 June 2023, Aganin presented his credentials to Mohammed al-Menfi.

Al-Menfi stated that international recognition is currently important for the Presidential Council. Within the country, he explained, the Presidential Council enjoys support in both the western and eastern regions. In his view, the Presidential Council “can be relied upon as a body that represents the interests of all Libyans”.

Interest

According to Putin’s assessment, “trade and economic ties and cooperation are developing quite well overall”. “Trade turnover in 2022 grew by 67.5 per cent, which is, of course, a good figure, and in January–April [2023] it increased by almost half again.

Among the priority areas of cooperation between the two countries, Putin listed ‘industrial and transport infrastructure, and energy’.

Tatneft has drilled exploratory wells in Libya, with the company achieving good flow rates from some of them. In 2023, the company will complete an economic assessment of the drilling to determine whether to continue operations there.

Background: In October 2021, Tatneft announced the resumption of geological exploration in Libya. Tatneft operated in Libya under a concession agreement from 2005 until 2014, when military hostilities began in the country. The company’s CEO, Nail Maganov, stated that the company is ready to resume oil production in Libya. There were also reports of the possibility of establishing a joint venture with the National Libyan Corporation.

Libya is ready to resume work on projects previously implemented with the Russian side, particularly in the energy sector and infrastructure (this concerns energy, infrastructure and railways)

Military influence

The Libyan leadership is counting on assistance from Russia and African countries in withdrawing foreign troops from the country’s territory.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Nigeria (₱/6)

Ranked 6th among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Note: The Federal Republic of Nigeria ranks sixth. Trade turnover for 2021 stood at $920.7 million (5% of the continent’s total), having doubled compared with the previous year ($461.4 million in 2020). Exports from Russia to Nigeria reached $883.4 million, whilst Russia’s imports from Nigeria stood at $37.3 million. The bulk of Russian exports consisted of mineral fuels (57%) and cereals (29%). ’s imports (84%) were primarily cocoa and cocoa products, with seeds and fruits (11%) and coffee and tea (2%) also being supplied.

Composition:

A Nigerian delegation led by Vice-President Kashim Shettim arrived in St Petersburg

Note: Nigeria is facing a severe food crisis, leading to the declaration of a state of emergency in the country from 13 July. According to the UN, around 25 million people, or nearly 10% of the country’s population, are at risk of food insecurity.

Presidential elections were held in Nigeria in March.

Russia has decided to open a trade mission in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, in 2023: the relevant decree was signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

Interest

Uralchem plans to supply humanitarian consignments of fertilisers to Zimbabwe and Nigeria.

Nigeria has discussed with Rusal the possibility of resuming aluminium production in the country.

Note: Rusal is the largest aluminium producer outside China and the only producer of primary aluminium in Russia.

Results

No specific results have been published.

Kenya (₱/10)

Ranked 10th among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Note: Kenya rounds off the top 10 with a trade turnover of $361.8 million (2% of the continent’s total). This is 12% more than in 2020 ($324 million). Of this, Russian exports to Kenya amounted to $221.1 million, consisting mainly of grain (45%) and ferrous metals (28%). Russia’s imports from Kenya reached $140.7 million, with coffee, tea and spices (50%) dominating the product range, along with live plants (34%).

Composition:

No information available.

Note: Exports of Russian agri-industrial products to Kenya in the first half of 2023 increased 11-fold compared to the same period in 2022 — to 609.2 thousand tonnes.

Interest

The TASS news agency plans to expand its presence in the African media landscape and open correspondent bureaux in Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

Rosatom head Alexei Likhachev named the African states of Burundi, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Rwanda as potential partners for the Russian nuclear industry.

Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian President’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights, announced that Russia will open an educational classroom in Kenya as part of its humanitarian cooperation.

Results

No information on specific results has been published.

PRIORITY OF ATTENTION 3.

Other African countries. (see Fig. 14)

Burkina Faso↓

Note: in early January 2023, Burkina Faso terminated its defence agreement with Paris, under which a French contingent of up to 400 special forces personnel had been stationed in the African country. On 19 February, French military personnel who had been stationed there since 2009 left the country. On 1 March, the government of Burkina Faso denounced the military agreement with France, which had been signed over 60 years ago.

Composition:

Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré arrived with a high-level delegation.

Military influence

Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Fomin discussed defence cooperation projects with Burkina Faso’s Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, Kassoum Coulibaly. The head of the Burkinabe delegation expressed gratitude for the support provided to the republic in the field of military reform.

Interest

The authorities are prepared to work on procuring essential goods from Russia, such as diesel fuel, petroleum products, mineral fertilisers, agricultural machinery and pharmaceutical products, which they require in large quantities as they wish to replace European suppliers.

Trade between Russia and Burkina Faso remains modest for the time being; there is room for improvement.

Russia is ready to consider increasing the quota for students from Burkina Faso to study in Russia

Burkina Faso is interested in Russia building a nuclear power plant on its territory.

Russia is ready to supply Burkina Faso with petroleum products, mineral fertilisers and pharmaceuticals. The parties have agreed on cooperation in the registration of pharmaceuticals, as well as on the routes for the supply of petroleum products.

Results

A decision has been taken to resume the activities of the Russian embassy, which was closed back in 1992.

Russia will cooperate with the African state of Burkina Faso in the field of airworthiness. A memorandum of understanding and a working agreement on cooperation within the framework of the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit were signed by the head of Rosaviatsiya, Alexander Neradko, and the Director General of the National Civil Aviation Agency of Burkina Faso, Thomas Hyacinthe Compaoré.

Burundi ↓

Composition:

President of Burundi Évariste Ndayishimiye, accompanied by a delegation.

Interests

In November 2022, Burundi’s Minister of Water Resources, Energy and Mining, Ibrahim Uvizeye, announced the African country’s interest in the construction of nuclear facilities on its territory. According to him, the republic would be prepared to invite Rosatom if the Russian state corporation’s terms proved attractive.

Burundi is interested in cooperating with Russia and Russian entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to increase agricultural production.

Burundi is seeking partners in the field of agricultural technology and the supply of mineral fertilisers, and is considering cooperation with the Russian company Uralchem. The negotiation process and search for partners began recently.

Currently, 84 students from Burundi are studying in Russia. In view of the growing demand in the Russian Federation, the government quota has been doubled to 100 places.

Results

An agreement has been signed between the governments of Russia and Burundi on cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The agreement will enable the launch of projects to establish and improve Burundi’s nuclear infrastructure, legal regulation in the field of nuclear and radiation safety, and research into the peaceful use of nuclear energy. In addition, the agreement covers the production of radioisotopes and their application in industry, medicine and agriculture, cooperation in the application of radiation technologies and nuclear medicine, and the training of specialists for the nuclear sector. The document was signed by Alexey Likhachev, Director General of the state corporation Rosatom, and Albert Shingiro, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burundi.

Rosatom and Burundi have also signed a memorandum of cooperation on training personnel for the development of technologies in the field of the peaceful use of nuclear energy. It will contribute to building human resources capacity for Burundi’s nuclear industry and developing cooperation between relevant educational institutions, including the organisation of joint short-term educational programmes, the training and retraining of teachers, and the development of educational and scientific literature.

Anna Popova, Head of Rospotrebnadzor, took part in the handover to the President of the Republic of Burundi, Evariste Ndayishimiye, of a mobile laboratory for combating dangerous infections.

The first joint scientific research projects on combating dangerous infections will begin in October 2023. Anna Popova, Head of Rospotrebnadzor, and Sylvie Nzeiman, Minister of Health and the Fight against AIDS of the Republic of Burundi, held talks. The parties agreed to establish a joint Russian-Burundian centre for the study and prevention of infectious diseases in Bujumbura. A corresponding document was signed following the talks. In addition, Rospotrebnadzor and the Burundian Ministry of Health signed a joint action plan providing for joint scientific research, staff training and the provision of technical assistance to Burundi.

Republic of Guinea↓

Composition:

A delegation from the Republic of Guinea, led by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Integration of Guineans Abroad, Morissanda Kouyaté, has arrived in St Petersburg

Interest

Russia is holding talks with the Republic on the development of energy cooperation. As noted by the Russian Ministry of Energy in June, the parties consider the construction and operation of solar power stations, as well as the development of hydropower and geological exploration, to be promising areas.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Sudan

Composition

A Sudanese delegation led by Malik Agar, Deputy Chairman of the country’s Sovereign Council, who is visiting Russia for the second time this summer.

Interest

The Deputy Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereign Council expressed hope that Moscow would be able to make a significant contribution to resolving the military conflict in the country, which erupted in April due to disagreements between the army commander and the leader of the special forces.

Results

No specific results have been published.

Guinea-Bissau↓

Participants

The President of Guinea-Bissau and Chair of the Economic Community of West African States, Umaru Sissoco Embalo.

Interests

The President of Guinea-Bissau and Chair of the Economic Community of West African States, Umaru Sissoco Embalo, proposed that Russia develop cooperation in the fields of education, mineral extraction and fisheries.

Guinea-Bissau would like to see more active participation by the Russian company Lukoil in the oil sector of this African country. Lukoil is already conducting exploration of deposits within the country.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Cameroon

Composition

A Cameroonian delegation led by the country’s President Paul Biya has arrived in St Petersburg.

Military cooperation

Earlier, Justin Tanga Biang, Second Counsellor at the Cameroonian Embassy in the Russian Federation, stated that his country views the implementation of the military cooperation agreement with Russia, signed in April 2022, as positive.

Interests

The Republic of Cameroon is counting on Russia’s support in securing financial assistance, particularly through the IMF.

Currently, 814 Cameroonian citizens are studying in Russia, including 47 on state scholarships. For next year, we have doubled the quota for Cameroonian citizens to 100 places.

In April 2023, an open education centre teaching in Russian began operating in Douala, which is now attended by over 150 schoolchildren and students.

Results

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that agreements had also been signed with Cameroon on the mutual abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic or service passports

Madagascar↓

Composition:

A delegation from Madagascar, led by the President of the Senate of the Republic, Erimanana Razafimahafoa, arrived in St Petersburg

Interest

Russia and Madagascar had previously confirmed their commitment to further developing cooperation in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Morocco (₱/3)

Ranked 3rd among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Morocco is the Russian Federation’s third-largest trading partner by volume. In 2021, trade between the countries amounted to $1.6 billion (9.3% of the total for the continent), with growth compared to 2020 reaching 42%. In the structure of Russian exports ($1.2 billion), the bulk is accounted for by oil and inorganic chemical products (over 70%). Fertilisers, soil, stone and plastering materials, aluminium and aluminium products, and cereals are also supplied. Russia imports ($435 million) mainly fruit and nuts (40%) and light industrial goods (33%).

Composition:

A Moroccan delegation led by the country’s Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, has arrived in St Petersburg.

Interests

Positive Technologies, a company operating in the field of cybersecurity, is discussing with Moroccan representatives the creation of a joint venture in cybersecurity based on the national telecommunications operator.

Results

Rosatom intends to participate in desalination, water treatment and water purification projects in Morocco. A memorandum to this effect was signed at the Russia–Africa Forum by Rusatom Infrastructure Solutions and Water and Energy Solutions.

Mozambique↓

Composition:

A Mozambican delegation led by the country’s President, Filipe Nyusi, has arrived in St Petersburg.

Interests

Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Energy also reported that Russia and Mozambique are considering cooperation in the fields of geological exploration and oil and gas production, and intend to develop hydropower projects.

Putin noted the positive trend — in 2022, trade turnover between our countries grew by 14.5%, and in January–April this year the positive trend continued, with growth reaching 35%.

Since 2020, the quota for Mozambican citizens to study in the Russian Federation has more than doubled; in the 2023–2024 academic year, it will amount to 75 scholarships

Results

Inter RAO – Export and Electricidade de Moçambique will cooperate on the Lurio-2 hydroelectric power plant construction project in Moçambique. The parties signed a cooperation agreement on the sidelines of the Russia–Africa Summit.

Ethiopia

Composition:

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in St Petersburg with a delegation.

Interest

Inter RAO – Export (part of Inter RAO) is awaiting a decision on the financing of the modernisation of the Ethiopian Malkawaka hydroelectric power plant. In particular, the option of converting Ethiopia’s sovereign debt into ‘development-for-debt’ is being considered. The Ethiopian side has received a proposal to contribute 70% in local currency for further capacity building.

Military influence

One of the key areas of cooperation in Ethiopia is military-technical cooperation.

Results

For 2023–2024, at the request of the Ethiopian side, the Russian Federation has more than tripled the quota for students funded by the Russian budget

The Federal Customs Service (FCS) of Russia and the Ethiopian Customs Commission signed an agreement on the exchange of information regarding the customs value of goods during the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit.

Russia and Ethiopia have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of international information security.

The state corporation Rosatom and the Ethiopian Ministry of Innovation and Technology have signed a roadmap for cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

South Sudan↓

South Sudan is the youngest internationally recognised state; its declaration of independence was signed in July 2011.

Composition:

The Vice-President of South Sudan, Taban Deng Gai, arrived in St Petersburg with a delegation.

Interests

Rosgeologia held talks on the possibility of working in South Sudan. There are numerous mineral resources here, including copper, uranium and lithium.

Rosgeologia has defined the scope of geological exploration work in South Sudan and is also discussing further cooperation with Mozambique.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Gambia↓

Composition:

Gambia’s Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara has arrived in St Petersburg.

Interest

Moscow welcomed The Gambia’s decision to accede to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific outcomes.

Djibouti

Composition

Djibouti’s Minister of Energy, Yonis Ali Gedi, arrived in St Petersburg at the head of the country’s delegation.

Interest

According to Lavrov, the development of relations between Russia and Djibouti will also help to strengthen security in the Horn of Africa.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

DRC↓

Composition

A delegation from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), led by the Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, Jean-Pierre Bemba, has arrived in St Petersburg.

Military influence

Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation Alexander Fomin and Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Jean-Pierre Bemba discussed defence issues of mutual interest [

Interests

In early June, it was reported that Yuri Borisov, head of the state corporation Roscosmos, held a meeting in Moscow with Misila Mia Nsokimieno Eric, during which the parties discussed possible joint projects in the space sector.

Results

An agreement between the governments of Russia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the abolition of visas for holders of diplomatic and service passports was signed during the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit.

  Mauritania

Mauritania is a member of the League of Arab States.

Composition:

A Mauritanian delegation led by Prime Minister Mohamed Ould Bilal arrived in St Petersburg

Interests

Tatarstan’s experience in the field of raw materials processing is of interest to Mauritania, as it plans to focus on raw materials processing within its own country.

Results

The Russian Football Union (RFU) and the Mauritanian Football Federation have signed a cooperation agreement. The agreement provides for the exchange of expertise in the training of coaching staff and the implementation of youth football development programmes.

Niger

Mikhail Bogdanov, the Russian President’s Special Representative for the Middle East and African countries and Deputy Foreign Minister, stated on the sidelines of the ‘Russia–Africa’ forum that Russia had no involvement in the coup d’état in Niger.

Rwanda

Composition:

A Rwandan delegation led by Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta has arrived in St Petersburg.

Interest

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted the republic’s constructive contribution to the work of intergovernmental bodies — the African Union, the East African Community, and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Seychelles↑

Composition:

A delegation from the Seychelles, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvester Radegond, arrived in St Petersburg.

Note: Earlier, the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, stated that the Seychelles remain a sovereign state and will not follow those countries that are imposing sanctions against Moscow. The head of state noted that Russia remains the leading tourist market for the Seychelles and expressed hope that the flow of Russian tourists would continue. In 2021, Russia ranked first in terms of the number of tourists visiting the Seychelles for holidays — 32,000 people.

Interest

Russia is ready to cooperate with the Seychelles in the field of tourism. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Seychelles has requested assistance in increasing the number of flights between Russia and the Seychelles.

Results

No information on specific results has been published.

Somalia↓

Composition

Somali Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama arrived in St Petersburg at the head of a delegation from the country.

Note: The security situation in the country also remains difficult. The Al-Shabaab group was formed in Somalia in 2004 and has been carrying out terrorist attacks since 2008. Until 2010, it controlled large swathes of territory, but in the summer of 2011 it withdrew from the Somali capital and switched to guerrilla tactics in its fight against the country’s government and its allies. The total strength of Al-Shabaab is estimated at up to 10,000 fighters.

Interest

The Russian President’s Special Representative for the Middle East and African Countries, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, and Somali Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama discussed, on the sidelines of the second Russia–Africa Summit, the issue of intensifying dialogue between Moscow and Mogadishu on international and African issues.

Military influence

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously stated that Russia is ready to meet the needs of the Somali army to complete efforts in the fight against terrorism [

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Tunisia↑ (₱/7)

Ranked 7th among Russia’s top 10 partners in Africa.

Tunisia ranks seventh among Russia’s trading partners in Africa. In 2021, trade turnover between the two countries amounted to nearly $480 million (2.7% of the continent’s total), down 3.32% compared to 2020. Of this, Russian exports amounted to $333 million and imports to $146 million. The bulk of Russian exports consisted of wheat and barley (40%) and ammonia (15%). Imports from Tunisia included clothing and footwear (60%), fluorides (6%), olive oil (6%), and fruit and vegetables (5%). In January–March 2022, trade turnover with Tunisia increased by 20% compared to the same period in 2021, amounting to $153 million.

Composition:

A Tunisian delegation led by Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar arrived in St Petersburg

Note: Tourism forms the basis of Russian-Tunisian economic cooperation. Since December last year, Tunisia has lifted all COVID-19-related restrictions and is counting on a strong return of Russian tourists in the 2023 season, as the Russian tourism market is a priority for the country. Russian citizens can visit the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

At the same time, Tunisia has maintained relations with the EU on the basis of a privileged partnership since 2012. However, dissatisfaction with the EU’s policy of delaying financial and economic aid to Tunisia, and protracted negotiations with the EU on a cooperation agreement aimed at reducing the flow of migrants from Africa, are forcing the country to seek new forms of engagement. Indeed, the Tunisian authorities are already in talks regarding accession to the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).

Interest

Rustam Minnikhanov, Head of Tatarstan, noted that Tatarstan is keen to expand exports to Tunisia of petrochemical and engineering products, including ships, car tyres, compressors, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, as well as agricultural goods. It is also interested in reciprocal supplies from Tunisia, including foodstuffs, fruit, vegetables, seafood and light industrial goods.

Results

Tunisian Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar has accepted an invitation to the international forum ‘Russia – Islamic World. KazanForum’ in 2024.

Chad

Composition:

A delegation from the Republic of Chad, led by Foreign Minister Mohamed Saleh Nazif, has arrived in St Petersburg. The country has downgraded its level of participation in the St Petersburg summit.

Note: In January 2023, the Russian embassy in this African republic issued a statement noting that any attempts to introduce elements of mistrust into the political dialogue between Moscow and N’Djamena (the capital of Chad) are doomed to failure. The statement came in response to the publication on YouTube of a video in which two Chadian rebels, dressed as a colonel and a sergeant, who are believed to in the Central African Republic (CAR), adjacent to the southern part of the Chadian border, told that they were preparing an offensive on N’Djamena from the south with the aim of overthrowing the constitutional order with the support of the Wagner Group.

Interest

The Russian President’s Special Representative for the Middle East and African Countries, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, and Chad’s Foreign Minister Mahamat Saleh Annadif, on the sidelines of the second ‘Russia – Africa summit discussed security issues in the Sahel-Sahara region and the Lake Chad basin against the backdrop of the domestic political crisis in Niger.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific outcomes.

FOCUS AREA 4.

Countries with a consistent position (see Fig. 15)

Zimbabwe℗

Composition:

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa arrived in St Petersburg with a delegation.

Note: Presidential elections will take place in Zimbabwe on 23 August 2023, alongside parliamentary and local elections. Among the registered candidates are the incumbent head of state Mnangagwa and one of the opposition leaders, Nelson Chamisa, as well as the leader of the opposition party ‘Movement for Democratic Change’, Douglas Mwanzora, and Savion Kasukuwere, a close associate of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe. The main contest for voters’ support is expected to be between Mnangagwa and Chamisa. If no candidate secures 50 per cent plus one vote in the first round of the presidential election, a second round will take place on 2 October. Mnangagwa is 80 years old and has led the country since 2017, when Mugabe, who had ruled Zimbabwe since 1980, was ousted from power.

Russia’s narratives:

Zimbabwe regards Russia as its historic ally, alongside whom the Zimbabwean people have fought and continue to fight against colonialism and imperialism. The President noted that Zimbabwe and Russia are currently facing unjust sanctions from the West.

Zimbabwe expresses its solidarity with Russia in the special military operation you are currently conducting in Ukraine.

Zimbabwe is ready to explore the use of alternative payment systems; we know that Russia has made significant progress in this area.

Interests

The Republic of Zimbabwe is keen to become a technological hub in the space sector.

Zimbabwe is interested in the supply of Russian fertilisers and grain, as well as assistance in the mechanisation of agricultural work.

Uralchem plans to deliver humanitarian shipments of fertilisers to Zimbabwe and Nigeria.

Results

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and the head of the ‘Nova Ziana’ news agency (Zimbabwe), Rangarirai Shoko, signed a memorandum of cooperation on the sidelines of the Second ‘Russia–Africa’ Media Forum.

Note: The Nova Ziana news agency is owned by the Zimbabwe Media Trust, a joint-stock company whose share capital is owned by the state. The agency publishes eight provincial cooperative newspapers.

An agreement between the governments of Russia and Zimbabwe on cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy was signed during the Russia–Africa Summit.

An agreement between the governments of Russia and Zimbabwe on cooperation in the field of international information security (IIS) was signed during the Russia–Africa Summit.

Mali↓℗

Composition:

Mali’s transitional president, Assimi Goïta, arrived in St Petersburg with a large delegation; the country is represented at the forum by around 80 people.

Interests

A number of cooperation agreements are expected to be signed during the event. The diplomatic mission emphasised that Russia is Mali’s ‘most important strategic partner’.

Military influence

Mali has been able to strengthen its armed forces and ensure security in the country thanks to Russia’s assistance.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

CAR↓℗

Composition:

The President of the Central African Republic, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, arrived in St Petersburg with a delegation.

Note: Security remains the priority area of cooperation at present, with the CAR facing significant challenges in this regard. Russian military instructors are stationed in the CAR. Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov emphasised that these advisers “will continue their activities in the necessary and required numbers” within the country.

In November 2022, the CAR Ministry of Foreign Affairs officially informed Paris of its decision to strip the French ambassador of his status as doyen (senior member) of the diplomatic corps, a position he had held continuously since 1960. In December, France withdrew the last soldiers from the contingent of French troops stationed in the country between 2013 and 2016 as part of Operation Sagaris.

Military influence

Russian President Vladimir Putin has assured that Moscow will support the Central African Republic’s leadership in its efforts to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities and sovereignty.

Interest

The level of cooperation between Russia and the Central African Republic (CAR) will be maintained, stated Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Significant potential is seen in areas such as joint mineral extraction, the development of the energy and agro-industrial sectors, and the supply of Russian equipment and agricultural machinery.

Results

Russia and the Central African Republic intend to cooperate in the field of airworthiness, the Rosaviatsiya press service reported. The relevant document was signed during the ‘Russia-Africa’ summit by Rosaviatsiya head Alexander Neradko and the Director General of the National Civil Aviation Agency of the Central African Republic, François Edly Fallo.

The quota of scholarships for Central African students funded by the Russian federal budget for the 2023/24 academic year has been increased.

Eritrea↓℗

Composition:

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki arrived in St Petersburg with his delegation.

Note: The US previously imposed restrictions on certain Eritrean politicians, military personnel and organisations. Eritrea has previously been subject to UN Security Council sanctions.

Interest

Russian President Vladimir Putin is counting on the active development of cooperation between Russia and Eritrea, for which both sides are appointing special high-level coordinators. A special inter-agency working group has been set up within Russia’s top leadership, headed by Presidential Aide [Maxim] Oreshkin, to explore opportunities for expanding trade and economic cooperation.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Namibia↑

Composition:

Namibian Vice-President Nangolo Mbumba arrived in St Petersburg with a delegation.

Interest

Putin proposed establishing cooperation in the production of uranium fuel and also expressed Russia’s interest in projects within the country’s diamond industry, as well as in the supply of agricultural products and railway carriages.

A uranium mining enterprise is planned to be launched in Namibia in 2029, with investments amounting to half a billion dollars. This is stated in a presentation at the Rosatom State Corporation’s stand at the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit. Exploration work is scheduled to be completed in 2026, with uranium mining set to begin in 2029 (with an operational lifespan of over 25 years).

Results

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and the head of the Namibian News Agency (NAMPA), Laines Chata, signed a memorandum of cooperation.

Note: The Namibian News Agency is a member of the Atlantic Federation of African News Agencies. In addition to news and information products, NAMPA also provides IT services.

Tanzania

Composition:

A Tanzanian delegation led by the country’s second-in-command, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, has arrived in St Petersburg.

Military influence

Russian Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin discussed issues of military cooperation with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mbaruku Nassor Mbaruku, on the sidelines of the ‘Russia–Africa’ summit.

Interests

Tanzania is inviting Russian companies to participate in projects for the exploration and extraction of minerals within the territory of this African country.

In November 2022, Kirill Komarov, Deputy Director General of Rosatom and Director of the Development and International Business Division, stated that the state corporation would begin uranium mining at a deposit in Tanzania in the coming years.

Tanzania is inviting Russian oil and gas companies to participate in projects in the country.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Togo↓

Composition:

A Togolese delegation led by Robert Dussé, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Diaspora Affairs

Interests –

Results –

Eswatini↑

Composition:

The Eswatini delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Temba Masuku, has arrived in St Petersburg.

Interests

Previously, representatives of Eswatini expressed a desire to sign agreements with Russia in the fields of defence and energy.

Moscow intends to deepen cooperation with the kingdom on the supply of Russian grain, energy and mineral extraction.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

Ghana

Composition

A Ghanaian delegation led by Minister of National Security Albert Kan-Dapaa arrived in St Petersburg.

Interest

TASS Director General Andrei Kondrashov and TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman held talks in St Petersburg during a business breakfast with Albert Kofi Owusu, Director General of the Ghana News Agency.

The Republic of Ghana plans to create a transport hub for the whole of West Africa and is ready to modernise its railway system with the participation of the Russian private sector. Initially, the plan was to build 4,000 km of roads; now the figure is 30,000–35,000 km, but there is a shortage of funds for such a project.

Results

The Russian Railways (RZD) holding company plans to cooperate with Ghana on the implementation of railway transport projects within this African nation. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between RZD International (a subsidiary of RZD) and the Ministry of Railway Development of the Republic of Ghana. RZD International will be ready to offer Ghana the establishment of a single transport control centre; training for specialists; the supply of railway construction equipment for infrastructure maintenance; as well as the transfer of expertise and technology.

Côte d’Ivoire (₱/9)

Ranked 2nd among Russia’s top 10 main partners in Africa.

Côte d’Ivoire ranks ninth. The value of mutual trade in 2021 amounted to $386.8 million (2.2%), an increase of 30% compared to the previous year (2020 – $292 million). Exports from Russia to Côte d’Ivoire amounted to $129.4 million, whilst Russia’s imports from Côte d’Ivoire stood at $257.5 million. The bulk of Russian exports consisted of fertilisers (50%) and cereals (20%). Imports were dominated (90%) by cocoa and cocoa products, with rubber, fruit and nuts also being supplied.

Composition:

A delegation from Côte d’Ivoire, led by the country’s ambassador to Germany, Philippe Mangou, who represents the country’s interests in the Russian Federation, arrived in St Petersburg.

Note: Historically, the republic, as a former French colony, has been oriented towards the capital of French companies engaged in the cultivation of export crops and the extraction of diamonds, gold and manganese ore. The independence of Côte d’Ivoire was proclaimed on 7 August 1960.

Interests

Results

No information on specific results has been published.

Malawi↓

Composition:

A delegation from Malawi led by Deputy Prime Minister Samuel Kawaale arrived in St Petersburg

Interest

Russia had previously supplied 20,000 tonnes of mineral fertilisers to Malawi free of charge.

The Malawian authorities emphasised the importance of developing agriculture in the republic, and therefore require Russian fertiliser supplies.

Malawi has also expressed an interest in developing cooperation with Russia in the fields of healthcare and the training of diplomatic personnel.

Results

No information has been published regarding specific results.

GENERAL CONCLUSION

The typology of African countries demonstrates that Russia’s policy on the continent is implemented in a highly fragmented and situational manner, where there is no single sphere of influence, and interaction is built through various groups of states with differing motivations. Russia exerts its most sustained influence among a limited circle of public allies (Zimbabwe℗, Mali↓℗, CAR↓℗, Eritrea↓℗), where military, political and, to some extent, economic instruments are combined. At the same time, a significant number of countries occupy intermediate positions — ranging from ‘balancing’ (Egypt (₱/1), Senegal (₱/4), Morocco (₱/3), Ethiopia, etc.) to ‘neutral’, which leaves room for competition between external players.

A key feature is the prevalence of pragmatic logic on the part of African states: even countries that engage with the Russian Federation simultaneously maintain a focus on diversifying partnerships and integrating into the global economy. This limits Russia’s ability to transform individual points of influence into a stable continental system, forcing it to operate through ad hoc agreements, adaptive alliances and situational coalitions.

Thus, the African theatre is shaping up for Russia as a field of competitive interaction rather than domination: Moscow is capable of maintaining and partially expanding its influence in individual countries, but lacks the resource and institutional base for systematic control over the region. This cements Russia’s role as one of the players in a multipolar environment, but does not allow it to advance to the level of a structure-forming actor on the continent.