Africa is hit hard by the negative effects of the war between Russia and Ukraine. Reduced supplies of grain and agricultural inputs have worsened the food crisis which now affects 346 million Africans. However, Russia and Ukraine agree that Africa is increasingly occupying the world political spectrum and plead for a reform of the United Nations in favor of a greater representation of Africa in the centers of decision-making.
The disruption of supply systems and food inflation are affecting Africa, a continent on which the war between Russia and Ukraine has aggravated the food crisis which today affects 346 million Africans. Going against the grain of other partners, the African Union called for the lifting of sanctions against Russia to restore the supply of agricultural inputs and cereals
The sanctions imposed on Russia have a significant and unexpected impact. Peripheral and even neutral countries are feeling the effect of these sanctions against Russia.
Cyril RAMAPHOSA, President of the Republic of South Africa
In the middle of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, Africa arouses the interest of both warring parties. A paradox in a context with particularly heavy consequences on the global economic and political balance. During his address to the African Union on June 20, 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recalled the long-standing relationship between Africa and his country in the education sector in particular. The Eastern European leader announced a strengthening of political ties with the African continent, with an emphasis on inter parliamentary exchanges.
In accordance with my instructions, the first regional tour of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to the states of sub-Saharan Africa is being prepared. Of course, we must also develop inter parliamentary dialogue. To this end, I initiate visits to African countries by representatives of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
Volodymyr ZELENSKY, President of the Republic of Ukraine
Russia is linked to several African countries like the Central African Republic by military agreements. However, the country is expanding its economic relations with Africa. In the first quarter of 2022, economic cooperation between Russia and Africa increased to more than 34%. Fruitful relations that Russia wishes to perpetuate.
Russia has always had a very strong interest in Africa and that is a big part of our cooperation. We believe that Africa has good prospects and we will strengthen our ties with the countries with which we have traditionally friendly relations.
Vladimir POUTINE, President of Russia
Despite the conflict between them, Russia and Ukraine agree on the fact that Africa occupies more and more space on the world political chessboard. However, these two countries recognize that efforts are needed to make Africa’s voice more international. It is in this dynamic that President Volodymyr Zelensky promised to hold a world conference on the reform and transformation of the United Nations, in Kyiv, Ukraine, at the end of the war.
