Russia's Africa Engagement Surges: 32,000 Students, US$30B Exports, Summit 2026
Russia's engagement with Africa is surging, with over 32,000 African students studying in Russian universities, including over 8,000 on scholarships. The quota of scholarships has more than doubled since 2022. The third Russia-Africa Summit is scheduled for 2026 in an African capital city.
Russia is actively pursuing structured partnerships with African regional organizations such as ECOWAS, EAC, IGAD, COMESA, SADC, and ECCAS. It aims to boost political and economic collaboration, with a goal of reaping approximately US$30 billion from increased exports to the African market. Russia has also written off US$20 billion worth of African debts to fund socio-economic projects.
To strengthen ties with Africa, Russia has established the Department for Partnership with Africa within its Foreign Ministry. This body is dedicated to fostering relations with the Global South, particularly Africa. Russia's commitment to Africa's growth is evident in its support for the African Union's permanent membership in the G20, which was secured in 2023. The Russia-Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan for 2023-2026 outlines cooperation in various spheres, including security, trade, investment, education, and culture, with a deadline set for 2026.
Tatiana Dovgalenko, Director of the African Partnership Department, praised Russia's policy achievements and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa's economic transformation. Russia's geopolitical ties and tactical strategies in Africa have excelled, with over 170 Russian companies and organizations submitting 280 proposals at the end of the first Russia-Africa summit in 2019.
Russia's relations with Africa are undergoing a renaissance after a period of inattention following the collapse of the USSR. In recognition of this renewed engagement, Egypt and Ethiopia received full membership in the BRICS association in January 2024, and Indonesia obtained partner country status in January 2025. As the third Russia-Africa Summit approaches, Russia's commitment to Africa's growth and development is clear, with significant investments and strategic partnerships being forged.
