World
Great-Power Rivalry Reawakening Russia to Geopolitical Realities in Africa
By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh
With heightening geopolitical situation, a new wave is entirely blowing from Russia to Africa, fortifying the emerging multipolar world with emphasis on Africa and the Global South. Russia’s policy approach toward Africa is increasingly changing, incorporating most the areas and spheres as ready instruments for consolidating the scale of current bilateral relations. For the first time in the post-Soviet history, a press tour for journalists of African news agencies “TASS – Africa: the Path of Friendship” took place from November 16 to 24 in Moscow, Kazan and St. Petersburg.
The TASS news agency intends to establish news bureaus in all African countries, replicating its presence during the Soviet era, Director General Andrey Kondrashov said. His statement was based on the fact that Africa is becoming “one of the most important areas of focus.” The biggest apparent challenge is how to create an extensive media outreach and maintain a significant information footprint, a replica which was witnessed during Soviet times.
Chairman of the State Duma, Vyacheslav Volodin, meeting with African ambassadors, indicated clearly that Russia is competing with foreign players in Africa. But, as Russia continues invariably working on its long-term cooperation, it has “to move away from intentions to concrete actions.” Russia has a distinctive feature in comparison with other countries: it has always spread to the people of the African continent good things, model-solutions for development problems.
During a meeting with African ambassadors in the State Duma, the issue of greater representation of Russian media in Africa was raised, which ambassadors responded with applause. “It is necessary to take certain steps together for the Russian media to work on the African continent,” Volodin noted before arguably comparing that “the Russian media provide broadcasting in various languages, they work in many countries, although it is certainly impossible to compare this presence with presence of the media of the United States, United Kingdom and Germany.”
Notwithstanding the geopolitical obstacles, Russia has sound instruments for media cooperation. Yet, officials desperately complain over anti-Russian media campaign perpetuated by the western media in Africa. The continent’s biggest challenge among political elite and entrepreneurs is to access opportunities in the Russian Federation for cooperation, yet these vital element has been missing. There is dearth of adequate information on economic and tourism developments between Russia and Africa.
For creating a sustainable partnership—the first in Africa—would require sprawling educational campuses, frequent exchange of specialists and students, promoting visa-free tourism, as well as media practitioners’ engagement with ordinary Russians, visiting interesting tourism spots across the Russian Federation.
And while China, for instance, has granted 53 African nations duty-free access to its market, Russia would simply not just as it does consider it necessary to permit African reporters inside the country. Noticeably, Africans are showing high interest in leveraging their relationships with Russia. On the other side, Russian rules and regulations are restricting Africans, and as result, rather continue balancing their strategic relationship—with varying degrees of success with the United States and Europe.
Experts have consistently argue that lack of two-way media representation exacerbates misunderstanding between Russia and Africa. As a result, African leaders and corporate business executives often rely on Western media for information about Russia, leading to a one-sided view that often reflects Western biases. As Africa’s middle class estimated at 280 million (twice Russia’s population) continues to grow, representing a vibrant information market, the need for a balanced and comprehensive media coverage from both sides becomes increasingly crucial. The low representation does not reflect the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Russia and Africa. Analysis further shows both realism and symbolism, and Africa repetitive attempts to turn symbolism into real substance at this stage of shifting developments.
Artem Kozhin, is now Russia’s ambassador to Seychelles. During the Russia-Africa Summit, Artem Kozhin, who represented the Foreign Ministry’s Information and Press Department, at the panel discussion on media, explained in an indepth report that some 300 news bureaus from 60 countries were operating in Russia, including 800 foreign correspondents and 400 technical personnel in the Russian Federation. According to his interpretation, this extremely low representation of African media hardly meets the level of current dynamically developing relations between Russia and Africa. “We invite all interested parties to open news bureaus and expand media cooperation with Russia,” Kozhin said at the gathering, inviting Africa media to Moscow.
Professor Alexey Vasiliev, the first Special Representative of Russian President for Relations with Africa (2006-2011) and currently the Head of the Center for African and Arab Studies at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, told the audience in Sochi: “Africa is largely unaware of Russia, since African media mainly consumes information the Western media sources and then replicates them. And all the fake news, the Rusophobia and anti-Russian propaganda, spread by the western media, are repeated in the African media.”
“Measures are needed to enable us to better understand each other,” suggested Professor Vasiliev, who regularly advises the Presidential Administration, the Government of the Russian Federation, both chambers of the Federal Assembly, and the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Critiques have since emerged regarding the level of discrimination in accrediting foreign media. In a parallel plane, policy researchers say Africa’s media absence in the Russian Federation is alarming. In short, Africa Studies Institute’s Director, Professor Irina Abramova has reiterated, at several conferences including at State Duma roundtable discussion, and now at TACC conference with the media group from 10 Francophone African countries, the extremely low of African media presence in the Russian Federation.
She emphasized that Russia’s image is formed by African audiences, influenced by the media, often diverges significantly from reality. The director noted that receiving first-hand information is the foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation. “Information, today, has become a powerful productive force, capable of shaping objective reality. Under the current conditions, the role of journalists is extremely important, because the nature of Russian-African relations, largely depends on how given facts are presented,” Professor Abramova stated, while urging African media practitioners to actively establish their presence in the Russian Federation.
Professor Abarmova regrettably underlined that not a single African news agency has permanent accreditation in the country. The speakers discussed expanding cooperation in the information sphere, pointed to the importance of expanding Russian media offices on the African continent.
For decades, cooperation with Africa has been in line with Moscow’s policy aimed at strengthening media ties. And now, by inviting these African media practitioners, more or less, marked one step toward teaming up, at starting level, to fight anti-Russian propaganda, and the spread of fake information. In addition, Professor Abramova underscored the critical fact that the Africa Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has to work up to an appreciable expectations, discard uncollaborative approach to issues relating to Africa.
For Africa, officials of the Department for Partnership with Africa at the Russian Foreign Ministry should rather show enthusiasm in facilitating the rules and regulations, among others, in addressing promptly the necessary obstacles hindering bilateral media cooperation. Professor Abramova unreservedly suggested, for example, the significance of establishing Russia-Africa Press Exchange Programme to encourage and promote exchanges and regular visits between Russian and African media.
Tatyana Dovgalenko, Director of the Department for Partnership with Africa at the Russian Foreign Ministry, said that Moscow counts on the active participation of its partners from Africa. In this context, she reiterated the Russia-Africa summits held in October 2019 and July 2023, have described as a true breakthrough by Russian President Vladimir Putin. “These events served as a powerful starting-point for what is commonly referred to as the revival of Russia-Africa relations. And today, Russian-African ties are steadily growing,” Dovgalenko said at the conference dedicated to the launch of the press tour. “It is important that our African friends view Russia as a reliable friend and a partner, capable of acting to protect its own sovereignty and supporting others to do the same.”
“These events served as a powerful starting-point for what is commonly referred to as the revival of Russia-Africa relations. And today, Russian-African ties are steadily growing,” Dovgalenko said at the conference dedicated to the launch of the press tour. “It is important that our African friends view Russia as a reliable friend and a partner, capable of acting to protect its own sovereignty and supporting others to do the same.”
The media initiative was as a follow up to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s discussions about rolling out a comprehensive roadmap for a more integrated cooperation and to find ways of improving public diplomacy in Africa.
On May 16, Sergey Lavrov chaired the Foreign Ministry Collegium meeting on the theme titled “Concept of the Russian Federation on Cooperation with African Media” which stresses the need to cooperate with African media as Russia looks forward to strengthening relations and intends to share its strategic interests with Africa. According to the MFA report: “the Russian Federation is implementing programmes of cooperation with various African countries which include the media, education, culture, art, and sport.”
In order to overcome these longstanding challenges mentioned above in the article, both Russia and Africa have to take concrete steps toward building a more collaborative media landscape. This includes creating opportunities for African journalists in Russia and increasing the presence of Russian media in Africa. In mid-November 2025, media representatives invited from 10 Francophone African countries, visited key landmarks, museums, and universities, and held meetings with representatives of academic institutions and media.
World
Online African Women Conference: From Adaptation in Russia to Issues of Health and Spirituality
By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh
Women, generally, are fighting for their own empowerment in society. Gender equality dominates their activities, flexing their feminine muscles for higher positions, with men, in diverse professional aspects, including politics and entrepreneurial spheres of activity.
Such consistent struggle was backed by a collective declaration, worldwide observing March 8 as International Women’s Day. Until today, March 8 commemorates women’s fight for equality and liberation along with the women’s rights movement. In addition, the March 8 celebration focuses on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.
On the eve of March 8, the Cameroonian Diaspora (Diaspocam) and the “African Business Club” together with Russian women’s organisations, held a special online conference under the theme: “How to Succeed as a Woman in Russia”, which brought together over a hundred participants from different regions, including Africa.
The discussion was dedicated to the challenges of adaptation, career prospects, health, and spiritual security of a fast-growing number of young African women living in the Russian Federation. The conference was moderated by Louis Gouend, a specialist in business communications between Russia and Africa, President of the African Business Club, and an expert of the Council of Russia-Africa Cooperation under the State Duma, lower chamber of Russian legislators.
Louis Gouend congratulated the women participants while extending to them good health, wisdom, and new achievements. The main goal of the conference was to create a space of trust and exchange views on the full spectrum of women’s multidisciplinary approach to questions.
On adaptation and legislation: Alina Andrukh, Director of the International Department, spoke on the topic “Global Adaptation of Foreign Citizens in Russia.” She thoroughly examined educational trajectories for women, employment opportunities, and new legislative realities that foreign women need to consider when building a career in the Russian Federation.
The speaker further placed special emphasis on how to avoid getting into trouble, complying with Russian laws, and protecting one’s rights.
Health Without Barriers and Support Centres: One of the most anticipated speeches was given by Ekaterina Glok, a midwife by profession. In her presentation on “The Health of an African Woman in Russia,” she touched upon the delicate topics of reproductive and sexual health. The expert gave practical advice on how to overcome the language barrier and shyness when visiting a gynaecologist, and explained the specifics of the Russian healthcare system for foreign patients.
Ekaterina, however, reminded the women of the importance of regular medical check-ups: visiting a doctor, at least, once a year is necessary even in the absence of complaints. She informed the participants about the existence of support centres for women and single mothers, where they can turn to in difficult life situations. Additionally, the speaker announced her upcoming working missions in the Republic of Cameroon, planned for May 2026, and gave many practical tips on maintaining women’s health.
Social and Cultural Challenges – Warning About Dangers: An important block of questions concerning safety and conscious motherhood was highlighted by Mme Zima épouse Ndong Toung Celestine Charlotte, Cultural Advisor at the Embassy of Cameroon. She had a frank conversation, warning the girls about scammers and dishonest individuals offering attractive working conditions, behind which often lie indecent earnings and dangerous situations.
The Advisor reminded that for those who came to Russia to study, education should remain their main priority. She urged lady students to be vigilant, not to give in to dubious offers, and to postpone questions of pregnancy and starting a family to a later period, after completing their studies. She touched upon the legal and moral aspects of unwanted pregnancy, calling on the girls to engage in conscious life planning.
Economic Independence and Earning Opportunities: Luciana Tchami, a member of the executive bureau of Diaspocam, a non-profit social organisation, presented a report on “Women’s Capabilities: Professions and Part-Time Jobs for Young Women in Russia.” She gave examples of successful strategies for earning money and building a career within the conditions of the Russian labour market that are accessible to foreign students and young professionals.
The speaker detailed specific areas of work: young women can take short-term training courses and work in beauty salons (manicure, pedicure); many cafes and restaurants offer convenient part-time jobs. Luciana also mentioned specialised websites with attractive conditions for job seekers and opportunities for remote work: becoming a freelancer and helping with tasks online, for online stores, and in other areas.
Spiritual Support: A Reminder of a Woman’s Value. The conference concluded with Pastor Gustave Mbeng, responsible for charity at Diaspocam. His prayer-speech was dedicated to women’s rights and spiritual awakening. As a pastor, Mbeng reminded the participants that woman is the last and most ideal creation of God, perfect in all parameters of the universe. He emphasised that women are more beautiful and harmonious than men, and urged the girls to take care of themselves and not to distance themselves from God, so that there would be fewer difficulties and questions in life.
Pastor Gustave further paid special attention to the theme of preserving life. He took a stand against abortion, reminding that every child is a creation of God, and in the eyes of the Almighty, there is no such concept as abortion. If pregnancy does occur, it is important to preserve the child’s life and trust in God’s providence.
Technical organisation, moderation, translation and coordination of the conference were provided by Iness Zengue Abeng, President of the Association of International Students “Russia-Africa,” and Belle-Grâce Euphrasie, Dean, who acted as interpreter during the online event.
Conclusion and Future Plans: At the end, Louis Gouend extended gratitude to all participants, speakers, and presenters for the warm and trusting atmosphere.
The conference was held in an open dialogue format on the”Yandex Telemost” platform, which allowed women from different parts of Russia to ask questions live and receive moral support. Following the meeting, the organisers decided to hold such an online gathering, including organising a series of meetings not only for women but also for foreigners living in Russia.
The topics of future conferences will aim at education, open discussions, and debate on issues important for Africans in the Russian Federation: knowing one’s rights, being able to avoid unpleasant situations, behaving correctly in difficult life circumstances, and preserving cultural and spiritual identity.
Until now, prejudice and reactionary attitudes have denied full-fledged civic rights to millions of women, who are considered as workers, mothers, family partners, and citizens worldwide. Nevertheless, International Women’s Day, with its chequered history, is a public holiday in several countries. The United Nations observes the holiday in connection with a particular issue, campaign, or theme in women’s rights across the world.
By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh
Beijing’s decades-long policy decision to expand Chinese presence in Africa has, largely, transcended into gifting buildings. The African Union and Africa’s CDC to Zimbabwe’s parliamentary village, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry headquarters, and Egypt’s sports stadium, among many others, are classic examples. Following all these, China will hand over the new headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in mid-March 2026.
Since the turn of the 21st century, China has risen to become Africa’s geopolitical partner, addressing concrete infrastructural projects across the continent. As is well-known, Beijing does so, with the sole aim of spending thousands of dollars to gain strategic control of the continent’s critical resources.
In an official news release, the regional bloc’s president, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, said that the new headquarters complex in Abuja, Nigeria, which will house the Commission, Parliament, and Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will be operational in March 2026.
Built on a 7-hectare site along the road to Abuja airport, the building is currently completed. Known as the ‘Eye of West Africa,’ the new ECOWAS headquarters complex is entirely funded and built by the People’s Republic of China through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (China Aid).
It is a modern and functional administrative building, designed to meet the needs of the West African organisation. It will provide services to create a favourable working environment for the community’s staff members. The new complex comprises a main administrative building with three restaurants/cafeterias, banking rooms, a crèche, a gym, and three blocks containing 899 workstations: block A (central) has 11 floors, and blocks B and C have eight floors each.
It also includes a multipurpose building with security facilities, shops, a water tank, and archive rooms, as well as car parks with a total capacity of 702 parking spaces, a 720-seat auditorium, two committee rooms, a conference room, an equipment room, guard posts, and a helipad.
The new ECOWAS headquarters complex is seen as a symbol of the strengthening cooperation between China and the regional organisation. It is part of a technical and institutional partnership aimed at further supporting ECOWAS’ operational capacities, as well as part of ongoing cooperation between the two parties.
Accordingly, the headquarters complex will enable greater operational efficiency, reduced costs, and increased staff productivity. ECOWAS has expressed deep gratitude and sincere appreciation to China for its commitment and support to the regional organisation through the construction, seen as a ‘symbol of Beijing’s steadfast commitment to West African integration.’
By Dipo Olowookere
Iranian Supreme Leader, Mr Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has died after coordinated airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Tehran on Saturday morning.
His death was confirmed on Sunday morning by Iranian state media, which also disclosed that his daughter and grandchild were among those killed in the bombardment, which destroyed his compound.
Mr Khamenei was killed during a meeting with top leaders of the Middle East country yesterday, including the Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guard commander Mohammad Pakpour, who reportedly died too.
His elimination has sparked mixed reactions, with some Iranians on the streets celebrating his demise, and others condemning the joint air strikes.
The President of the United States, Mr Donald Trump, described the late Iranian leader as “one of the most evil people in history,” expressing satisfaction at the action, which he said was “successful,” as it represented justice for both Iranians and Americans.
Meanwhile, Tehran has vowed to further respond to the attacks after initially firing missiles at six neighbours, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain, and Jordan.
Flight operations in the region have been disrupted because of the retaliatory action of Iran over the weekend, though most of the missiles were intercepted.
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism10 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking8 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy3 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking3 years agoSort Codes of UBA Branches in Nigeria
-
Banking3 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports3 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn