From solar energy to mining: Russia and Madagascar discuss strategic partnership

Russia and Madagascar are deepening their energy cooperation. The parties discussed joint projects in the electric power and renewable energy sectors, including solar power generation.

The talks were chaired by Pavel Sorokin, First Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation, and the Minister of Mines of Madagascar. The Russian side confirmed its readiness for practical work, while Madagascar, in turn, expressed interest in expanding the partnership.

The focus on solar energy is generally logical. More than 60% of Madagascar's population does not have access to reliable electricity. Yet, the country has one of the highest solar generation potentials in Africa.

For Russian companies, this cooperation opens up a niche for investors in distributed energy. Such solutions are in demand in remote areas and industrial facilities. If successful, the pilot project could become a model for replication in other isolated energy markets on the continent.

#RussiaAfrica #Madagascar

Bashkir Equipment for Algeria: Russian Oil Industry Expands its presence in Africa

Bashkortostan's Oiltimmash has delivered a batch of specialized equipment for oil and gas field exploration and testing to Algeria. The products were shipped as part of the strategic partnership program between Russia and Algeria, signed at the highest level in 2023.

For the Algerian market, where oil and gas remain the backbone of the economy, the supply of high-tech equipment signals the Russian industrial sector's readiness to compete not only on price but also on quality. Oiltimmash specializes in developments for geological exploration and operational testing, filling a niche critical to maintaining production at mature fields.

The local success of the Bashkir company could pave the way for other Russian oil and gas players willing to offer Africa engineering solutions rather than raw materials.

#Algeria #oilandgas #RussiaAfrica

From regulatory framework to student quotas: Russia begins preparations for a nuclear power plant project in Burkina Faso

Russia has begun the preparatory phase of the first nuclear power plant project in Burkina Faso, the Russian Embassy told Izvestia. Rosatom clarified that construction is not yet under consideration, and the parties are exploring the feasibility of implementing the project.

At this stage, the priority is creating a regulatory framework for the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. In June 2025, the parties signed a framework intergovernmental cooperation agreement. At the same time, Rosatom is preparing the human resources base for the future industry: the first student from Burkina Faso has already begun studying in Russia under the state corporation's quota, and six places have been allocated for next year.

The country's energy needs are truly critical. With a population of almost 25 million, only slightly more than 20% have access to electricity. The country's own generation capacity is a modest 420 MW and is heavily dependent on expensive imported fuel. In this context, even a single low-capacity plant could radically change the situation—a typical 300 MW power unit could generate twice the country's current output.

A broader agenda is also developing alongside the nuclear track. A meeting of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation is scheduled for the summer of 2026, and the Russian side has already donated generators, transformers, and water filters worth approximately $345,000 to the Burkina Faso military. The equipment is intended for use in crisis zones where access to electricity and clean water remains a serious problem.

Therefore, cooperation with Burkina Faso extends far beyond nuclear energy, encompassing security and infrastructure. For Rosatom, developing the regulatory framework and local personnel now is a long-term investment, laying the foundation for future contracts in a country with severe energy shortages.

#RussiaAfrica #BurkinaFaso #Rosatom #NPP

Energy that Lights Up Continents

On International Women's Day, we want to talk not just about spring and flowers, but about the force that truly moves the world.

In the energy sector, where every project is a challenge to nature, logistics, and geopolitics, decisions are made at the very limits of possibilities. And here, women surprise again and again. You know how to combine strategy with attention to detail, ambition with the patience to negotiate for years.

The Russian-African energy partnership today is more than just fuel supplies or the construction of power plants. It is the creation of infrastructure for a new reality, where people have light, water, and jobs. And women are behind many of these projects — engineers, negotiators, analysts, managers. Those who know how to turn on the light, literally and figuratively.

We congratulate everyone who makes energy more accessible and partnerships stronger. May your energy never run dry, and may every project you launch bring you not only kilowatts but also pride in your accomplishments.

Happy holiday, dear ladies. Without you, this sector would be just technology. With you, it becomes life.

#AREA

Standards, Technologies, and the Sahel: Russia and Algeria Strengthen Energy Dialogue

Industry standards, new technologies, and joint projects in third countries—Russia and Algeria continue to expand their energy cooperation. The latest round of talks was chaired by Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin and Algerian Ambassador to Moscow Toufic Djouama.

The parties are preparing for a meeting of the intergovernmental commission and discussing practical steps to deepen cooperation. One of the key areas is the harmonization of industry standards and the introduction of Russian technologies. A Technology Day featuring Russian specialists will soon be held in Algeria.

Contacts are becoming closer and meetings are becoming more frequent—and this is no coincidence. Previously, Russia and Algeria agreed on comprehensive cooperation—from joint work in OPEC+ to the implementation of infrastructure projects in third African countries. This likely refers to the Sahel Alliance, where both countries have growing influence.

Moreover, Algeria is increasing gas production (planned from 137 to 200 billion cubic meters per year) and is actively seeking technology partners. Since the beginning of 2024 alone, the state-owned company Sonatrach has announced eight major discoveries. Russian companies have already been invited to participate in tenders for the development of new fields and the creation of energy infrastructure.

Therefore, the current meeting is not just a formal step, but part of a systematic process. Algeria is becoming more than just a customer for Russia, but a strategic partner with access to projects in Algeria and beyond. The busy schedule of negotiations, in turn, indicates that both sides are committed to translating agreements into practical action.

#RussiaAfrica #Algeria #energy

New Horizons for Energy Partnership: South Africa Increases Interest in Russian Gas and Nuclear Energy

South Africa's interest in importing Russian liquefied natural gas is noticeably growing amid supply disruptions and rising energy prices. Russian Ambassador to the Republic Roman Ambarov told Izvestia, noting that the two countries' business communities are regularly discussing practical projects.

A key event was the signing of a memorandum between Rosatom and the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) at the Africa Energy Indaba 2026 forum in early March. The document aims to develop the industry's human resources by creating joint educational programs, improving the qualifications of specialists, and supporting students in technical fields.

More broadly, South Africa views Russia as a potential partner for diversifying its energy mix. Currently, the country's energy sector is primarily coal-based, but the need for stable gas supplies and the development of low-carbon generation is growing. Nuclear energy, in this sense, is one of the most promising areas for Africa, and Russia is ready to offer both technology and educational support.

Russian-South African energy cooperation is developing along two tracks: gas and nuclear. The signed memorandum with Rosatom lays the foundation for a long-term partnership, and growing interest in LNG opens up new opportunities for Russian companies in the African market.

#RussiaAfrica #SouthAfrica #Rosatom #energy

From Kazan to Cairo: African Specialists Master Russian Technologies

At the Energoprom Forum in Kazan, Russian Deputy Minister of Energy Roman Marshavin met with participants of the InteRussia program. Representatives of energy companies and relevant ministries from African countries: Ethiopia, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, and Egypt, are participating in the internship.

Each participating country has its own energy sector specifics and its own projects with Russia. Ethiopia, where almost 90% of its energy system relies on hydropower, needs to modernize the Melka Wakina hydroelectric power plant, built by Soviet specialists. Zambia is experiencing an energy crisis due to drought—the largest hydroelectric power plant on Lake Kariba is operating at only 10-20% of its capacity—so the country is actively seeking ways to diversify its generation.

Niger, where approximately 20% of the population has access to electricity, is negotiating with Rosatom to build a nuclear power plant. Morocco signed a cooperation agreement with the Russian Association of Electronics Developers and Manufacturers, paving the way for joint renewable energy projects and infrastructure modernization. Egypt has made further progress. Construction of the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant has entered a key phase, and Rosatom is already producing fuel for it.

"The Russian engineering school has traditionally been strong in its fundamental training. Today, our task is to pass on these traditions to our partners, shaping a new generation of specialists," Marshavin noted.

#AREA #RussiaAfrica

Oil Product Pipeline to Congo: Russia Launches a Unique Infrastructure Project for Africa

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak completed his working visit to Brazzaville. Following talks with the leadership of the Republic of Congo, it was announced that the Pointe-Noire-Lutete-Maluko-Trecho oil product pipeline project is fully ready for implementation.

The pipeline, over 1,300 km long, will connect the southern port with the northern regions, ensuring the delivery of gasoline, diesel fuel, and jet fuel deep into the country. On the Russian side, the project is being implemented by Zakneftegazstroy-Prometey (a company with 65 years of experience, spanning from the Turkish Stream to the Yamal-Europe pipeline). Financing has been structured, the sites have been allocated, and construction can begin soon.

The project compares favorably with other African pipeline initiatives. While neighboring countries are building crude oil pipelines (for example, Tanzania-Uganda or Niger-Benin), the Russian-Congolese project is focused on finished petroleum products. This is crucial for Congo: fuel consumption has tripled in ten years, from 250,000 to 800,000 tons per year, while internal regions suffer from shortages and expensive road transport logistics.

Under an intergovernmental agreement already approved by the Russian government, a joint venture (90% owned by the Russian side and 10% by the state-owned company SNPC) is being established. It will build and manage the pipeline under a "Build-Own-Operate-Transfer" concession for a minimum of 25 years. Upon completion of the concession, all facilities will be transferred to Congo. The Congolese side, in turn, guarantees capacity, tax breaks, and land.

Russia's responsibilities will include project management, construction, financing, equipment and personnel supply, and the organization of additional oil product deliveries from Russia for pipe loading.

The route could eventually be extended to Gabon and Cameroon, which would then expand the project beyond bilateral cooperation and become a driver for the entire Central African region.

#RussiaAfrica #Congo

Different levels, but a common vector: Russia is expanding its energy presence in Congo and Rwanda.

Rosatom is developing a pilot project in the Republic of Congo to build two modular small hydropower plants with a total capacity of 2.6 MW. The plants are capable of operating year-round in challenging climate conditions and will provide stable electricity to remote and hard-to-reach areas. Successful implementation will provide access to clean energy for approximately 1,000 rural households.

The parties already have a history of cooperation: an intergovernmental agreement on peaceful use of nuclear energy was signed in 2019, and a memorandum on cooperation in hydropower was signed in 2024. Students from Congo are currently studying at Russian universities under Rosatom quotas (National Nuclear University MEPhI, Russian Chemical Technology University, and Voronezh State University).

At the same time, Russia is strengthening its nuclear cooperation with Rwanda. Rosatom is helping to establish a Nuclear Science and Technology Center with a research reactor, develop the regulatory framework, and train personnel. Kigali's ambition is to launch the first small modular reactor by the early 2030s and increase the share of nuclear generation to 60–70% of the energy mix.

The two African countries have different levels of nuclear maturity, but the vector is the same: Russian technologies and specialist training are consistently forming the foundation for future energy systems.

#RussiaAfrica #Rosatom #Congo #Rwanda

Happy Victory Day!

May 9, 1945 – a day that will forever remain the most important date in our history. Victory came at a high price: millions of lives, destroyed cities, burned factories. But it was this victory that gave the country the opportunity to move forward – to rebuild, to build, to live.

We remember those who fought at the front and worked in the rear. Their heroism is reflected in every peaceful day, in every new project, in every step Russia takes forward.

We remember and are proud!

Oil and Electricity: South Sudan and Russia Discuss Cooperation

Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin held a series of meetings in South Sudan with the country's leadership. The focus was on cooperation in oil field development, hydropower, and electrification.

Juba's demand for Russian technology has been long-standing.

"We need the support of the Russian people and invite you to bring technology, financing, and logistical solutions," emphasized Deputy Petroleum Minister Mayen Wol Jong Mayen at Russian Energy Week in 2023.

However, the issue is not limited to oil. South Sudan's electrification rate is among the lowest in the world. Marshavin proposed preparing a comprehensive energy system development plan. Specific services (forecasting, automatic power management, emergency control) could be provided by a specialized Russian organization. Hydropower projects were also discussed (Russian companies are willing to provide consulting engineering and equipment supply) and the construction of mini-thermal power plants using diesel generators.

As a young and energy-deficient country, South Sudan requires a systemic partnership. Russia can address several areas at once: from oil infrastructure to basic electrification. Therefore, for Russian businesses, this represents an entry into a new market with high demand for technology and infrastructure solutions.

#RussiaAfrica #SouthSudan

Energy and Justice: Andrey Gromov on the New Power Plant in Comoros and Russia's Role on the African Continent

On the "Mama Africa" ​​program on the "Soloviev LIVE" channel, Andrey Gromov, Executive Secretary of the AREA Board and member of the State Duma's Expert Council for Interaction with African Countries, spoke about new energy initiatives in the Comoros Islands.

According to Gromov, an agreement to build a new power plant on the archipelago was recently reached at an economic forum in Kazan.

"I think we have very good potential here," the expert remarked, emphasizing that Russia has a huge scientific foundation in energy and is capable of creating large-scale projects and macrosystems.

Gromov noted that demand for Russian energy resources and technologies is growing in Africa. Thus, many island states, facing disruptions in fuel supplies from Arab countries, are now turning to Russia to consider alternative options for electricity and fuel supplies, as well as the construction of energy facilities.

Regarding the activities of the African-Russian Energy Association (AREA), work is currently underway with partners from African countries, including heads of state energy corporations and energy ministers. Notably, 30% of them are graduates of Russian universities, creating a solid foundation for industry dialogue.

Andrey Gromov emphasizes that Russia offers the continent dialogue and a willingness to consider each other's interests. According to the expert, Russia is coming to the continent not to impose its rules, but to lift the colonial yoke that many countries still suffer, receiving no more than 10% of their resource base.

"We provide them with protection and the opportunity for fair and equitable development," he concluded.

#AREA #RussiaAfrica #Comoros #energy

Electricity losses in some places exceed 50%: Gromov on the obstacles in the development of African countries and Russia's opportunities on the continent

African power grids are losing more than half of the electricity they transmit, and their modernization requires colossal investments. This was stated by Andrey Gromov, Executive Secretary of AREA and founder of the GR-Group consulting agency, in an interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda.

"The energy grid complex was built locally; depreciation is high, with losses exceeding 50%. Modernization is needed," the expert noted.

At the same time, Russia has a significant advantage: a rich scientific base and strong expertise in the energy sector.

Gromov added that the continent is currently engulfed in competition among the largest corporations, and Russia is only just rebuilding its Soviet-era ties.

The legacy of its personnel also helps.

"Thirty percent of the members of the African Energy Association are graduates of Soviet and Russian universities. We quickly find common ground, sharing a common cultural framework,” the expert explained.

Therefore, high network depreciation and colossal transmission losses are not only a problem but also an opportunity for Russian energy companies ready to offer modernization technologies and comprehensive solutions.

#AREA #RussiaAfrica #energy

Electricity in remote regions of Congo is only on for a few hours a week: Yulia Berg on energy challenges and Russia's role

On the "Mama Africa" ​​program on the "Soloviev LIVE" channel, Yulia Berg, board member of the African-Russian Energy Association and founder of the Globus Association, spoke about the energy situation in the Republic of Congo.

According to Berg, access to electricity in remote areas of the country is one of the most pressing issues.

"Electricity in remote areas sometimes comes on for a couple of hours, a couple of times a week, and that's it. Naturally, this significantly hinders other opportunities," the expert noted.

A study by the GlobUs Association, covering all 15 regions of Congo, confirmed the systemic nature of the problem.

At the same time, Berg emphasized the human resource potential being created by Russia. Several hundred students from Congo, and sometimes over a thousand, are currently studying or have studied in the country.

"You often meet someone who speaks Russian, remembers studying in Russia, and speaks very warmly of that experience," she emphasized.

Therefore, the main challenges for the near future are ensuring a stable energy supply even in the most remote regions and training personnel, including for the energy sector. In both areas, Russian companies and educational institutions can offer proven solutions.

#RussiaAfrica #Congo #energy #GlobusAssociation #electrification

Congo is losing 85% of its oil revenues: How Russia is helping the republic regain control of its resources

The Republic of Congo, where oil production accounts for 60% of its GDP, controls only 15% of its own oil industry—the rest goes to European corporations. This was stated in an interview from Brazzaville by Andrey Gromov, Executive Secretary of the African-Russian Energy Association.

Currently, key areas of the economy, including monetary policy, are still controlled by France: the CFA franc currency remains under Paris' control, and French companies have acquired 60% of the country's land.

Despite this, Congo possesses enormous potential. The republic occupies a key logistical position in West and Central Africa thanks to the deep-water port of Pointe-Noire, built under Soviet participation.

Russia and Congo are already implementing large-scale joint projects. The flagship project is the construction of an oil pipeline across the country to the Democratic Republic of Congo. An investment protection agreement has been ratified, creating favorable conditions for Russian businesses.

"The conditions Russia is offering are based on a mutually beneficial strategic partnership, and they are qualitatively better than the enslaving ones imposed by France," Gromov stated, adding that Congo, like many African countries, is seeking ways to break free from its dependence on its former colonial master.

#RussiaAfrica #Congo #oil #energy #AREA