In the evolving geopolitical landscape, Russia’s influence in many regions of the world, including the African continent, is growing, posing a significant threat to Western hegemony.
Russia’s Outreach to Africa: A Message of Multipolarity
Historical Ties and Shared Struggles
Almost all of the region’s anti-colonial parties—Mozambique’s FRELIMO, Namibia’s SWAPO, South Africa’s ANC, Tanzania’s CCM, and Zimbabwe’s ZANU-PF, were brought together in this summit. All of these parties hold historic ties with Russia, as they were formed during the anti-colonial resistance and were supported by Soviet ideology of independence during the Cold War era. The Soviet Union also provided arms and weapons to these parties to fight against the colonial powers. Medvedev’s remarks suggest that these parties are the guardians of developmental progress and sovereignty, indicating their legitimacy and relevance in the future multipolar world order.
People in the African region have strong disappointment over their plight after the end of colonial rule. For most of the African nations, political independence did not lead to economic prosperity. Decades after the withdrawal of the European colonial powers, Western corporations still control the extraction of natural resources in the region. Moreover, the Bretton Woods Institutions act as the blockers and blackmailers to further the Western agenda in the region, leading to a prevalent sense of perennial colonialism amongst the African populace.
Russia as a Strategic Partner Against Neocolonialism
Russia is eager to rebuild its global image against Western isolation and sanctions following its armed conflict with Ukraine. Therefore, it seeks to liberate Africa from this persistent sentiment. Medvedev’s message criticized neocolonialism and held that the proposed Russian model of multipolar world order seeks to establish equal partnerships amongst all the countries. Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, has also made similar comments, blaming the West for economic exploitation of former colonies. These statements resonate with the nation’s feeling of being oppressed by the Western-dominated system.
For nations still haunted by the specter of colonialism, Russia is a strong and suitable candidate for alliance and partnership due to its history and ideology of inclusiveness. Moscow’s leadership within BRICS has strengthened its image as a balanced and inclusive global actor. Through BRICS, Russia has proved itself as a superpower that believes in equality and justice. The rapidly growing popularity of the BRICS organization suggests that third-world nations are seeking to become a part of an inclusive and multipolar world order. Through BRICS, Russia and its fellow member states aim to build a more egalitarian world order, challenging the neocolonial system long dominated by Western powers.
BRICS can also help the African nations break the shackles of Western dominance. The New Development Bank of the BRICS organization can provide financial aid to the economically struggling nations on more flexible and favorable conditions than the West-dominated economic institutions of the US-led unipolar world order. The organization can also provide a forum for the African nations to raise their concerns internationally. And the key to joining this organization for the African countries is their strong alliance with Russia.
Future Prospects and Shared Gains
President Putin also seeks to expand Russia’s diplomatic and economic footprint in the African region. The latter has long been struggling against the West-sponsored terrorist organizations. These organizations pose a significant threat to the peace and prosperity of the region. However, Russia can help the region in countering these organizations. In 2023, Russia played a pivotal role in helping the African Union gain permanent membership in the G20. In 2024, he pledged total support to the regional countries in their fight against terrorism and extremism. Previously, the Russian President held that he seeks to expand the bilateral trade to $40 billion. Although this aim has not been achieved yet, the growing relations between the two sides can easily materialize this aim sooner.
Due to its global diplomatic and economic significance, Russia has much to offer to the African region. Moscow holds such global significance that it acts as a gateway to progress and prosperity for the African world. African nations can utilize Russia’s technological advancement for infrastructural enhancement. On the other hand, Russia can also access Africa’s natural resources, which can further strengthen its economy and influence globally. For Africa, the future lies in choosing the Eastern powers, especially Russia. Medvedev’s remarks at the summit signaled Russia’s intent to deepen cooperation with the African continent, positioning African nations as equal partners in the emerging multipolar world order. The expanding alliance and cooperation between the two sides across multiple sectors pose a significant threat to the neocolonial Western powers.
Аbbas Hashemite – is a political observer and research analyst for regional and global geopolitical issues. He is currently working as an independent researcher and journalist
Follow new articles on our Telegram channel
