Understanding Russia’s expanding presence in Africa | Global News

Russia’s top diplomat, Sergey Lavrov, has been making waves in Africa’s sub-Saharan region of Sahel this week, offering help and military assistance to several countries as Moscow seeks to expand its influence in the mineral-rich area.

Lavrov’s whirlwind tour included stops in Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and Chad, where he emphasized Russia’s commitment to providing security cooperation and support. Moscow has been increasingly seen as the security partner of choice for many African governments in the region, displacing traditional allies like France and the United States.

One key aspect of Russia’s strategy in Africa has been its use of private security companies like Wagner and the likely successor, Africa Corps, to deploy Russian mercenaries in various roles, from protecting African leaders to assisting in the fight against extremists.

The move has raised concerns among Western powers, with the Polish Institute of International Affairs highlighting Russia’s assertive approach in expanding its military presence in Africa. Moscow has also been seeking political support, or at least neutrality, from African countries over its invasion of Ukraine.

In addition to military cooperation, Russia has been accused of spreading disinformation to undermine ties between African states and the West. The Africa Center For Strategic Studies reported that Moscow has sponsored numerous campaigns targeting over 22 countries in Africa.

As Russia continues to expand its influence in Africa, questions arise about the motivations behind African nations turning to Moscow. Political unrest, military coups, and frustration with former colonial powers like France have created opportunities for Russia to offer security assistance without interfering in domestic politics, making it an appealing partner for countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

With Africa’s rich mineral resources becoming increasingly central to economic and national security, Russia’s interest in the continent is likely to grow. The country has already secured access to various resources in countries like the Central African Republic, Congo, and Sudan, through mining deals with companies it controls.

Overall, Russia’s expanding presence in Africa, through military cooperation, resource extraction, and political influence, is reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the continent and challenging the dominance of traditional Western powers.