Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has underscored his country’s expanding engagement with Africa, emphasizing a broader partnership that extends beyond providing grain to addressing mutual development goals. Speaking at the Third International Summit on Food Security in Kyiv, he highlighted Ukraine’s commitment to fostering deeper economic, technological, and diplomatic ties with African nations.
This year, Ukraine initiated the opening of 10 embassies across Africa, with seven already operational and three more in progress. Zelensky affirmed that Ukraine aims to be a dependable partner for Africa’s food security and economic advancement.
“We don’t want to simply deliver grain. We seek to share our agricultural expertise, technologies, and skills in land cultivation, and to build grain hubs with African countries,” Zelensky stated. He emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to collaborate in fields such as mineral extraction, digital services, and cybersecurity, areas where Ukraine has developed significant capabilities.
The President also noted Ukraine’s intention to support Africa through investments, job creation, and enhanced agricultural processing capabilities, driving economic growth and trade relations across the continent.
Zelensky reiterated the importance of direct dialogue with African leaders and ministers to strengthen partnerships. Reflecting on his recent interaction with Kenyan President William Ruto during the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland, he acknowledged Kenya’s strategic role in Ukraine’s food security agenda. Discussions included a proposed grain hub in Kenya and other key bilateral initiatives, with outcomes expected to be announced soon.
Despite challenges posed by Russian war and Black Sea blockades, Zelensky assured that Ukraine remains steadfast in its commitment to global food security and values its growing alliances with African nations.