Notably, the conference featured representatives from African embassies, including the Ambassador of the Central African Republic to Russia, Léon Dodonou-Pounagaza, alongside members of the Russian Public Chamber, prominent African studies scholars, and journalists, reflecting a desire for broad public engagement on the issue.
The theme of combating neo-colonialism was also central to the second Russia-Africa Parliamentary Conference, held in Moscow on March 19–20, 2023, and the second Russia-Africa” Summit, held in St. Petersburg from July 27 to 28, 2023.
On February 16, 2024, the United Russia party organized the first International Forum of Supporters of the Fight Against Modern Colonial Practices – “For the Freedom of Nations!” –which attracted over 400 participants from more than 55 countries.
In his opening address, Russian President Vladimir Putin reminded attendees of the Soviet Union’s role in dismantling the colonial system and affirmed Russia’s commitment to intensifying the struggle “for true freedom and justice, for progress for all nations, and for the establishment of a democratic multipolar world order.”
Thus, Russia is actively promoting a narrative of “cooperation on mutually beneficial terms without preconditions.” In other words, Russia is ready to assist its African partners across various sectors and foster close trade and economic ties without imposing ideological, political, or value-based demands. This approach starkly contrasts with that of the “collective West,” which conditions financial and technological aid on a nation’s political alignment.
Consequently, Africans have warmly welcomed Russia’s return to the continent, viewing it as a potential end to Western dominance. This sentiment was echoed by the Ambassador of the Central African Republic to Russia, Léon Dodonou-Pounagaza, during his speech at the June 2022 conference. He illustrated how France has persistently sought to maintain its influence in his country, orchestrating the overthrow of undesirable leaders through coups or uprisings by groups armed and supported by the French government. He expressed strong support for Russia’s return to Africa, expressing hope that Russia would help African nations break free from the neo-colonial impasse.
A similar stance was taken by Jacob Mudenda, Speaker of Zimbabwe’s National Assembly, at the Russia-Africa Parliamentary Conference. He thanked Russia for its steadfast support of African states in their quest to strengthen their global standing and asserted that “stability cannot exist under the dominance of a hegemon.” He argued that Russia should serve as a counterbalance in the emerging multipolar world. Louis Vlavonou, President of Benin’s National Assembly, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Russia’s cooperation with Africa is crucial for addressing global challenges.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa also praised Russia’s efforts to combat colonial legacies, stating at the second Russia-Africa Summit in July 2023 that Africa “shares Russia’s stance on neo-colonialism and stands in solidarity with Moscow’s fight against it.” Notably, he spoke on behalf of all Africans, not just his own nation.
Gayo Asherbiri, a member of Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives, also voiced support for Russia’s policies. During a meeting with the Donetsk People’s Republic Head Denis Pushilin on December 15, 2024, he highlighted that Russia symbolizes independence for Africa and that its pursuit of a sovereign foreign policy inspires Africans in their struggle against colonial legacies. He noted that “Russia’s support for Africa is rooted not in its power but in its principled defence of African states’ sovereign rights.”
In conclusion, Russia’s concept of combating neo-colonialism has garnered significant support in Africa. This is bolstered by Russia’s lack of a colonial or neo-colonial past and the enduring memory of the Soviet Union’s development assistance to African nations. As a result, many African leaders eagerly anticipate deeper cooperation with Russia, believing it will help achieve the continent’s full decolonization and curb the hegemonic ambitions of the “collective West.”