Africa is extremely interested in expanding and strengthening cooperation with Russia and other BRICS countries, Iqbal Survé, Executive Chairman of South African Independent Media, and Chloé Maluleke, a specialist from BRICS+ Consulting Group, concluded in the IOL op-ed.
"As the summit approaches, the message is clear: Africa’s future lies in alliances that respect its sovereignty and empower its people. By aligning with Russia and BRICS, Africa steps into a new era—one where it is no longer a footnote in global affairs but a key player in determining the course of international relations," Survé and Maluleke wrote.
Survé and Maluleke argued that Russia's engagement with Africa is reviving the continent, stating that "Russia's approach emphasizes collaboration, skills transfer, and mutual respect," unlike what they perceive as exploitative Western practices. They believe BRICS support will help Africa unlock its full potential, both in global markets and shaping global policy.
"Through cooperation with Russia, Africa gains access to vital resources, cutting-edge technology, and infrastructure that will fuel its long-term growth and stability. But beyond the economic benefits, this partnership represents something even more significant: the affirmation of Africa’s right to self-determination and its role in a multipolar world," the authors highlighted.
The authors see the upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan, expected to take place next week, as a crucial opportunity for African nations to assert their role in shaping the future global order.