Russia-Africa Summit 2023: Toward a “Multipolar Order” Without “Neocolonialism”

The rapprochement between Russia and Africa appears stronger than ever. Just weeks after an African peace mission visited Russia and Ukraine, the Russian president and several African leaders gathered for the Russia-Africa Summit. President Vladimir Putin thus concluded his charm offensive aimed at African countries, underpinned by sharp criticism of the West. On Friday, July 28, the final day of the Russia-Africa Summit in Saint Petersburg, Putin declared that Moscow and African nations were committed to promoting a "multipolar world order" and to fighting against "neocolonialism."

A joint declaration was adopted at the close of the summit, outlining increased cooperation in the areas of food supply, energy, and development aid. The document calls for the creation of “a fairer, more balanced, and sustainable multipolar world order,” and firmly opposes “any form of international confrontation on the African continent,” according to the statement published on the Kremlin’s website. It also notes that Russia will help African countries "seek reparations for the economic and humanitarian damage caused by colonial policies," including “the restitution of cultural artifacts” that were looted.

Vladimir Putin had already pledged to deliver free grain to six African countries in the coming months, amid concerns following Moscow’s withdrawal from the agreement on Ukrainian agricultural exports. Russia has been strengthening ties with Africa in recent years, including through the services of the Wagner paramilitary group, positioning itself as a bulwark against Western “imperialism” and “neocolonialism.”

This summit reflects Africa’s desire to diversify its international partnerships and assert itself on the global stage. It aligns with the peace mission previously undertaken in the region—an initiative that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described as “historic,” emphasizing that it was “the first time African leaders launched a peace mission beyond” the continent. The delegation—comprising South Africa, Egypt, Senegal, Congo-Brazzaville, Comoros, Zambia, and Uganda—presented a 10-point proposal, which included recognizing the sovereignty of both Russia and Ukraine and ensuring the continued, unimpeded export of grain.