At the Russia-Africa summit, Moscow steps up cooperation in nuclear energy, satellite technology and security, challenging Western influence.
Russia took advantage of the first Russia-Africa ministerial summit to expand its strategic partnerships with African countries. By focusing on key sectors such as nuclear energy, satellite technology and security, Moscow aims to strengthen its position in Africa while challenging Western influence. These initiatives illustrate Russia’s determination to assert itself as an essential global power on the African continent.
Russia relies on Africa to strengthen its global position
At the first Russia-Africa ministerial summit held in Sochi, Russia welcomed delegations from 54 African countries. This event follows on from the 2023 summit, where African heads of state had already met with President Vladimir Putin. The main objective was to consolidate bilateral relations in areas such as agriculture, education, energy and trade.
Russia presented its vision of a multipolar world, seeking to challenge the international system dominated by the West. The official discourse emphasized respect for sovereignty and equality between nations, themes that resonate strongly in many African countries that have experienced colonization. By positioning itself as an alternative partner, Moscow hopes to gain political and economic influence on the continent.
According to data from the International Monetary Fund, trade between Russia and Africa reached around 20 billion euros in 2022. Although this figure is still modest compared to Sino-African trade, it bears witness to a steady growth in economic relations. Russia aims to increase these figures by investing in strategic sectors and offering alternatives to Western partnerships.
Nuclear and space cooperation: strategic sectors
Russia has signed nuclear cooperation agreements with countries such as Rwanda and Burkina Faso. With recognized expertise in this field, thanks in particular to Rosatom, Russia offers to build nuclear power plants and train local specialists. These projects could help African countries meet their growing energy needs, while creating a technological dependence on Moscow.
In the space sector, Russia has also stepped up its collaboration with nations such as Angola. By helping to launch satellites into orbit, Moscow offers not only advanced technological services, but also the opportunity for these countries to develop their own communications and observation capabilities. For example, Angola launched the AngoSat-2 satellite in 2022 with Russia’s help, improving its telecommunications infrastructure.
These strategic partnerships enable Russia to secure significant revenues while extending its influence. They also pose challenges for Western countries, who see their economic and political interests competing on the African continent.
Expanding Russia’s military presence in Africa
Russia emphasized its role as a security provider at the summit. Discussions were held with countries such as Sudan to establish a naval base at Port Sudan on the Red Sea. This project, if successful, would give Russia strategic access to international shipping lanes.
Moscow has also stepped up its military cooperation with Sahel nations such as Mali and Burkina Faso. By providing military equipment and training, Russia is establishing itself as a key partner in the fight against armed groups. However, this presence is raising concerns about regional stability and the potential exacerbation of tensions with Western countries with interests in the region.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia is the leading arms supplier to Africa, accounting for around 44% of arms imports to the continent between 2017 and 2021. This growing military influence reinforces Russia’s position as a major security player in Africa.
Strengthening human and diplomatic ties
In addition to economic and military agreements, Russia is seeking to consolidate its human relations with Africa. The planned opening of embassies in countries such as Comoros, Gambia, Liberia and Togo testifies to this desire. By increasing its diplomatic presence, Moscow aims to facilitate exchanges and promote its culture and values.
Russia has also announced initiatives to increase the number of African students in its universities. Currently, some 15,000 African students are enrolled in Russian institutions. By offering scholarships and specialized programs, Russia hopes to train an African elite that will benefit the country in the long term.
The development of air links with the continent is another aspect of this strategy. By facilitating travel, Russia encourages trade and tourism, strengthening ties between populations.
Consequences for Western interests in Africa
The expansion of Russian influence in Africa poses significant challenges for Western countries. By proposing alternatives to traditional partnerships, Russia is challenging the West’s economic and political hegemony on the continent. Strategic sectors such as nuclear energy and security are particularly concerned.
The increased dependence of certain African countries on Russia could reduce the effectiveness of Western sanctions and complicate diplomatic efforts. Moreover, Russia’s military presence, particularly in sensitive areas such as the Sahel, could disrupt anti-terrorist operations carried out by Western forces.
Finally, Russian influence could alter the geopolitical balance in Africa, favoring governments less aligned with the democratic values advocated by the West. This could have long-term repercussions for regional stability and the promotion of human rights.
A new dynamic in Africa
Russia’s strategy in Africa, marked by multi-faceted cooperation, illustrates Moscow’s determination to establish itself as a power to be reckoned with on the international stage. By developing strategic partnerships in key sectors and strengthening its human ties, Russia is changing the continent’s geopolitical landscape.
This dynamic poses challenges for Western countries, who must rethink their approach and relations with African nations. They need to offer attractive alternatives and strengthen existing partnerships to maintain their influence.
The current situation opens up a new era of competition in Africa, where African countries could take advantage of this rivalry to diversify their partnerships and boost their development.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.