Lavrov's Africa tour highlights Russia's growing strategic relevance to Africa and its growing popularity. Moscow is building on its anti-imperialist legacy and positions itself as a credible partner, unlike the West and its neo-colonialist and imperialist policies. This mutual trust creates a win-win situation, with Moscow consolidating its position internationally while African countries gain a partner that respects their national sovereignty.

RT

Russia's increasing commitment to Africa is primarily due to its growing international isolation following its Ukraine invasion. For years, the US warned that Russia is aggressively seeking to expand its influence in Africa — without achieving any tangible success in combating Islamist terror. Moscow presents itself as an advocate for poor African countries but is merely pursuing the Kremlin's goal of securing the loyalty of authoritarian regimes to counter the West.

CNN