The State Duma of the Russian Federation hosted a landmark round table on (March 6), "Information Bridge: Russia - Africa," aimed at deepening media collaboration between Russia and African nations. Organized by the Expert Council on the Development and Support of Comprehensive Partnership with African Countries and the African-Russian Energy Association, the event brought together key stakeholders, including Russian and African journalists, media executives, bloggers, and government officials.
Enhancing Russian-African Media Ties
Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Alexander Babakov opened the session, emphasizing that strengthening media communication between Russia and Africa requires active state participation. He pointed out that existing institutions and resources must be utilized effectively to shape a more balanced media narrative.
The Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, highlighted major challenges in media relations between the two regions. She noted that while Russian and African media have untapped potential, the absence of accredited African media in Russia limits mutual understanding. Zakharova proposed solutions, including press tours, media conferences, and educational programs, to expand Russian-African media cooperation.
Bridging the Information Gap
Director of the Institute of Africa of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Irina Abramova, stressed the importance of accurate reporting on African affairs. She proposed media outreach beyond capital cities to engage local communities and improve knowledge of African issues. Furthermore, she advocated for greater collaboration with African bloggers to counter misconceptions and enhance the visibility of Russian-African partnerships.
Cameroonian journalist Clarissa Vaidorven reinforced this point, noting how Western media influence local narratives in Africa. She urged Russia to invest in media diplomacy by launching a dedicated Russian television network in Africa and supporting independent journalism to present an alternative to Western perspectives.
A Strategic Media Shift in the Global South
Head of RT’s African Content Production Service, Svyatoslav Shchegolev, acknowledged the challenges in broadcasting Russia’s perspectives due to Western restrictions but highlighted Africa’s growing interest in independent narratives. Meanwhile, Victoria Smorodina, Editor-in-Chief of InternationalReporters, drew comparisons to France’s declining media influence in Africa, suggesting that former colonial powers must adapt to Africa’s evolving information landscape.
The event concluded with Andrey Gromov, Executive Secretary of the African-Russian Energy Association (AREA), presenting a resolution outlining specific measures to strengthen media cooperation. He stressed that many Russian-African business projects have failed due to insufficient media coverage, reinforcing the need for sustained media engagement.
The Global South’s Rising Media Influence
This roundtable reflects a broader trend in the Global South, where countries are intensifying cooperation to reshape global narratives. The Global South is moving toward greater media autonomy, reducing reliance on Western-dominated narratives and promoting balanced storytelling. Initiatives like BRICS+ media collaborations, the rise of African media startups, and increasing South-South partnerships demonstrate that developing nations are asserting their voices on the global stage.
As Russia and Africa explore deeper media ties, this initiative marks a step toward strengthening South-South cooperation, fostering independent journalism, and challenging information monopolies. The success of this collaboration could set a precedent for other nations in the Global South to build robust, self-sufficient media ecosystems that reflect their diverse perspectives and aspirations.
BOB Post
