Russia has launched a new Department for Partnership with Africa, reinforcing its commitment to deepening relations with the continent as part of a broader geopolitical shift.
The initiative aligns with Moscow’s increasing focus on the Global South, particularly in response to its growing isolation from Western nations following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov inaugurated the department in Moscow, acknowledging previous shortcomings in Russia’s Africa policy. He attributed past disengagement to post-Soviet financial struggles and an initial tilt towards the West, which he described as a “strategic mistake” that has now been rectified.
Lavrov emphasized Russia’s historical ties with Africa, recalling Soviet-era support for anti-colonial movements and positioning Russia as a steadfast ally in advancing African interests on the global stage. He reiterated Moscow’s backing for Africa’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its role in shaping an emerging multipolar world.
Increased economic cooperation is also a key focus, with Russia-Africa trade reaching $25 billion in 2024. However, Lavrov acknowledged that trade levels remain below their potential and called for expanded investment in sectors such as energy, transport, digital technology, and nuclear development.
Additionally, Russia plans to broaden its diplomatic presence in Africa, with new embassies set to open in Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Gambia, Liberia, the Comoros, and Togo.
The newly established department will oversee Russia’s engagement with Africa through multilateral organizations, including the African Union and BRICS. The BRICS alliance, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.
Moscow’s renewed focus on Africa underscores its strategic push to strengthen partnerships in the region amid shifting global alliances.