russia admits plans to build a network of influence agents in Africa
In russia, a proposal was made to create a unified platform for graduates of russian universities from African countries. The need for such a platform is explained by the necessity to coordinate African graduates who “actively promote the russian language abroad and shape a positive image of the russian federation.”
▫️ The initiative was announced at the conference “russian language — the basis of integration dialogue in the CIS” and was publicized through one of the sanctioned resources specializing in promoting russian propaganda and influence in Africa.
The kremlin has long used the education of foreigners as a tool of “soft power,” which the Center has repeatedly highlighted. The creation of a “graduates’ platform” means that the kremlin is trying to institutionally consolidate its educational expansion in Africa: turning former students into agents of cultural and political influence who will promote pro-russian messages in their countries. In other words, it is about nurturing future elites loyal to Moscow.
