Sputnik launched a course of lectures on the challenges of neocolonialism in collaboration with the Russian Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund.
According to the African expert, the continent's strategic importance is growing rapidly, particularly through its role in BRICS and its ability to challenge outdated geopolitical hierarchies.
Mthembu emphasized that Africa’s collective voice in international diplomacy is more powerful than ever.
“Africa is the largest voting bloc in the UN General Assembly. When these 54 countries speak with one voice, they elevate their influence far beyond the continent,” he noted, adding that with its vast resources, strategic location, and youthful population, Africa is no longer just a passive participant in global affairs—it is actively reshaping governance structures and decision-making processes.
The speaker highlighted the shifting dynamics of global influence, particularly in relation to the BRICS alliance.
According to Mthembu, BRICS is no longer a peripheral economic bloc but a dominant force in shaping international politics: “BRICS represents almost half of the world’s population, compared to just 10% for the G7. The global balance is shifting, and Africa is at its core.”
Sputnik launched a course of lectures on the challenges of neocolonialism in collaboration with the Russian Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund
© Sputnik
He pointed out that Africa’s expanding economic partnerships within BRICS are creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and development, allowing the continent to assert its role in the global financial system. One of the key aspects of Africa’s rise, according to Mthembu, is its demographic advantage.
“Over 70% of Africa’s population is under 30. We are not waiting for others to decide our fate—we are building it ourselves,” he highlighted.
The speaker stressed that this young, ambitious generation is driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic transformation across the continent. With investments in education, technology, and industry, Africa is positioning itself not only as a resource-rich region but as a hub of creativity and progress.
Sputnik launched a course of lectures on the challenges of neocolonialism in collaboration with the Russian Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund
© Sputnik
The lecture sparked a highly interactive discussion, with students actively engaging in debates about Africa’s economic future, political influence, and role in BRICS. Many posed insightful questions about the continent’s strategy for achieving greater self-reliance and reducing dependency on Western financial systems.
The lively exchange of ideas underscored the growing interest in Africa’s place in global affairs and reinforced the importance of fostering deeper academic and diplomatic ties between Africa and Russia.
Vasiliy Pushkov, Director of International Cooperation at Sputnik, moderated the event and underscored that “overcoming the challenges of neocolonialism is impossible without the development of objective and impartial journalism, rooted in a pluralistic approach to global events."
Sputnik launched a course of lectures on the challenges of neocolonialism in collaboration with the Russian Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund
© Sputnik
Thanks to the Gorchakov Fund, Sputnik has the opportunity "to invite leading experts from the Global South to engage in deep discussions with the next generation of media professionals." The event was held as part of a broader initiative launched with the support of the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund and the Center for Humanitarian and Educational Programs.
This lecture is part of the ongoing series “The Global Majority and the Challenges of Neocolonialism,” designed to provide students in Russia and abroad with diverse perspectives on global development and international cooperation. Over the coming months, lectures by Russian and international experts will be held at leading universities in Russia, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.