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Why Africa's Largest Regional Economic Community Eyes Russian Security Cooperation
Why Africa's Largest Regional Economic Community Eyes Russian Security Cooperation
Sputnik Africa
COMESA, a bloc of 21 nations, has officially asked Russia for internal security support. This episode reveals Africa’s disappointment with the slow, grinding... 10.06.2026, Sputnik Africa
2026-06-10T16:27+0200
2026-06-10T16:27+0200
2026-06-10T16:27+0200
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Why Africa's Largest Regional Economic Community Eyes Russian Security Cooperation
Sputnik Africa
COMESA, a bloc of 21 nations, has officially asked Russia for internal security support. This episode reveals Africa’s disappointment with the slow, grinding frustration of empty Western promises—and what this means for a multipolar world.
The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)—the largest market in Eastern and Southern Africa, known for its pragmatic and business-first approach—has formally requested Russian support to secure its internal stability. The request, confirmed by the bloc’s Governance, Peace, and Security program, covers the fight against terrorism, transnational crime, and the protection of vital trade corridors. Dr. Edwin Nwachukwu, an economist and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria, discussed the shifts from old Western formats of partnership and postcolonial aid frameworks that still treat African states as pupils and why turning to Russia is not a protest but a strategy.Curious to hear more? Tune in to the full conversation on the Pan-African Frequency podcast, brought to you by Sputnik Africa.In addition to the website, you can also catch our episodes on Telegram.► You can also listen to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, Pocket Casts, Afripods, and Podcast Addict► Check out all the episodes of Pan-African Frequency
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Why Africa's Largest Regional Economic Community Eyes Russian Security Cooperation
COMESA, a bloc of 21 nations, has officially asked Russia for internal security support. This episode reveals Africa’s disappointment with the slow, grinding frustration of empty Western promises—and what this means for a multipolar world.
The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)—the largest market in Eastern and Southern Africa, known for its pragmatic and business-first approach—has formally requested Russian support to secure its internal stability. The request, confirmed by the bloc’s Governance, Peace, and Security program, covers the fight against terrorism, transnational crime, and the protection of vital trade corridors. Dr. Edwin Nwachukwu, an economist and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria, discussed the shifts from old Western formats of partnership and postcolonial aid frameworks that still treat African states as pupils and why turning to Russia is not a protest but a strategy.
“When we look at first legacy structures and postcolonial dynamics, many African policymakers argue that EU-African relations remain shaped by postcolonial aid and trade frameworks [...] Why COMESA and other African blocs are turning towards Russia cannot be overemphasized. COMESA's request for Russian support reflects a broader trend. African states are choosing Russia because of practical needs, political alignments, and diversification strategies. Russia offers cooperation with fewer political conditions. This is one of the main factors. Russia emphasizes non-interference, sovereignty, and equality of states. For governments seeking rapid implementation of security or economic programs, this is a major advantage over European Union conditionality. Then another factor is alignment on security needs. Russia provides military training, equipment, intelligence, support, and counterterrorism assistance. Precisely, the areas COMESA identifies as critical for stabilizing trade corridors. Then, strategic diversification. After frustration with Western partners, African states are expanding their options,” the expert noted.
Curious to hear more? Tune in to the full conversation on the
Pan-African Frequency podcast, brought to you by
Sputnik Africa.In addition to the website, you can also catch our episodes on
Telegram.► Check out all the episodes of Pan-African Frequency 
