russia is increasing its influence in Africa under the guise of fighting epidemics
russian propaganda is actively promoting putin’s claims about russia’s supposed major successes in helping African countries combat epidemic diseases. In reality, however, this cooperation is just one aspect of the kremlin’s multi-dimensional strategy to increase the continent’s dependence on russia.
While developing medical partnerships, russia simultaneously conducts disinformation campaigns in Africa targeting Western humanitarian missions, accusing them of spreading diseases and exploiting post-colonial traumas. Since 2022, russia has sponsored around 80 such campaigns across 22 countries. The refusal of African nations to cooperate with the West often leads to a general deterioration in public health conditions.
In addition to humanitarian cooperation, russia is also trying to expand its collaboration in other sectors and is increasing its military presence on the continent. All of this is done solely to gain access to Africa’s resources and to strengthen russia’s military and political influence.
