Abstract
This report examines how Russia’s growing engagement in Africa is affecting development aid and public attitudes. Russia has ramped up its Africa strategy especially after its estrangement from the West due to the Ukraine conflict. Unlike traditional Western aid, which is often tied to democratic governance and long-term development goals, Russia employs a realist, transactional approach focused on security, military support, and resource deals. By partnering with unstable regimes and offering arms or the deployment of private military contractors like the Wagner Group in exchange for mineral concessions and loyalty, Russia positions itself as an influential ally in countries such as the Central African Republic, Mali, Sudan, Libya, and others. This strategy is bolstered by anti-Western, anti-colonial messaging that appeals to historical grievances.