Paradoxes hinder the development of Russian energy projects in Africa

During the seminar "African Energy Market: Development Trends and Problems", member of the AREA board, director of the International Business Acceleration Center Yulia Berg spoke about the problems that energy joint projects face during their implementation in Africa.

In her report, the expert identified three paradoxes.

The first is that all statistics indicate that most of Sub-Saharan population does not have regular access to electricity and there is no opportunity to build and develop industrial capacities. At the same time, the authorities of countries in need of energy projects cannot clearly formulate what capacities are strategically needed to develop industry and meet people's needs, since most of large projects depend on foreign financing and are outside of full control of the authorities.

The second paradox, Berg said, is the approach of Russian energy companies to work on the continent. According to her, it is based on Soviet principles and government orders, so there is not much of initiatives taking into account local market realities. In fact, the Rosatom project in South Africa fell into such a trap. The state corporation did not pay due attention to PR and GR, which is why the project, associated with former President Jacob Zuma, literally sank after the head of state left office.

“The second paradox is the very approach of companies that, on the one hand, are trying to integrate into new markets, but do so using their own patterns that are outdated even for the Russian Federation in many cases,” emphasized the member of the board of AREA.

The third paradox, Yulia Berg noted, is the lack of opportunity to implement development strategies simultaneously in different areas.

“That is, the reforms that are being carried out in the financial system, in the political sphere, in terms of attracting investment in industry or creating joint ventures - all this must go together. And we see very different approaches in different countries of the continent,” the expert noted.

She added that there are different examples, and although the success rate of projects varies greatly, the pace of their implementation remains slow.

#AREA #Africa #RussiaAfrica #Russia #Mali #energy

Russia is one of the few countries capable of implementing energy projects in Africa

Russia is one of the few countries that have applied knowledge and the necessary competence to implement energy projects on the African continent. This was stated by the Executive Secretary of AREA, CEO of GR-Group Andrey Gromov during the seminar “African Energy Market: Development Trends and Problems”.

The expert said that previously the energy sector of Africa was controlled by colonial countries, but now Russia, China, and Arab states are also working on the continent.

“Competition for the future of Africa is increasing. There is a certain excitement now, literally a race for investments. Unfortunately, these investment instruments are not so actively developed in our country. However, there is a clear political course that has determined the priorities of foreign policy, and Africa is directly related to them,” Gromov noted.

According to him, one of the problems of the energy strategy and development of the energy grid complex is that the programs look unattractive to investors and are more like political declarations.

“An investor needs guarantees as part of long-term planning. The structure of investments on the continent has changed very much. Previously, solar energy was unprofitable, but now the cost of solar energy is at the level of coal. Macro conditions have changed. And all these strategies need timely adjustments,” the expert explained.

The responsible secretary of the AREA called the most acceptable model of cooperation for Russia the one in which scientific developments and technologies will remain with the Russian Federation, and the orders themselves will be implemented in production facilities where they will be more widespread and cheaper.

“We have large, rich scientific developments that need to be finalized and imported into real activities,” Gromov summarized.

#AREA #Africa #RussiaAfrica #Russia #energy

Africa Needs "Compact" Energy

Small-capacity nuclear power plants — compact units with a capacity of up to 300 MW — require minimal infrastructure and have the potential to scale up production. Their serial production will reduce the cost of electricity and shorten construction periods to four years compared to ten years for traditional nuclear power plants, GR-Group CEO Andrey Gromov told Kommersant.

According to the International Energy Agency, more than 40% of Africa's population does not have access to electricity, and small nuclear power plants can be a key solution to the energy deficit.

"Small nuclear power plants can be installed in remote regions where high capacity is needed. For example, floating nuclear power plants are mobile and efficient energy sources that will help overcome energy shortages," said Andrey Gromov.

The expert added that the introduction of small mobile nuclear reactors in sub-Saharan Africa could be an important step in solving the energy deficit, accelerating socio-economic development and transitioning to sustainable energy.

#AREA #Africa #energy

Russia and Tanzania are developing cooperation in nuclear energy

During the negotiations at SPIEF-2025, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev and Tanzanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Biteko Doto Mashaka discussed the prospects for joint work in the energy sector.

The Tanzanian side presented an ambitious five-year energy development program, which provides for a gradual increase in electricity supply to the population from current levels to 75%, and in the future - up to 100% coverage. Particular attention in the strategy is paid to the development of renewable energy sources and the study of the possibilities of peaceful nuclear energy.

"Our president set the task that it is impossible to build technological sovereignty in one separate country. It must be built together with friendly countries. And the Republic of Tanzania is precisely our friendly country. Therefore, we are ready to share our technologies," Sergei Tsivilev emphasized.

The Russian side proposed a comprehensive approach to cooperation. It includes the possible construction of low-power nuclear power plants, training of personnel in Russian universities, conducting technical and economic research, as well as implementing joint projects in non-energy areas - medicine and agriculture.

This dialogue has become a logical continuation of previously reached agreements. In April 2025, Rosatom and the Ministry of Energy of Tanzania signed a memorandum on cooperation in the field of non-energy application of nuclear technologies. New negotiations expand the scope of interaction, opening up prospects for the implementation of large-scale energy projects.

Experts note that Russian-Tanzanian cooperation in the nuclear sector can become a key factor in the implementation of the energy strategy of the African country. It will provide its population with stable and environmentally friendly energy sources, and will also create a basis for the technological development of a number of related sectors of the economy.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #Tanzania #energy

African challenge: why old approaches no longer work?

As part of the situational analysis "Practice of Russian humanitarian policy in sub-Saharan Africa", organized by the A.M. Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Support Fund, experts from various industries outlined promising areas of Russian work in the humanitarian sphere on the African continent.

Member of the board of the AREA, director of IBAC Yulia Berg in her report emphasized the need to update approaches to promoting Russian business.

"Of course, the Soviet experience remains an important reference, but it is time to look forward. The world has changed: now we have the Internet, instant information exchange, and this creates a completely different reality in which PR and work with the media cannot be ignored," Berg said.

In turn, the executive secretary of the AREA and founder of the consulting agency GR-group Andrey Gromov emphasized the key role of education in humanitarian cooperation. He recalled that about a third of energy company executives and representatives of relevant energy bodies in many African countries are graduates of various Soviet universities. At the same time, the expert criticized the current approach, pointing out that "hanging" the entire burden on the state, as was the case in the USSR, is ineffective.

"We are trying to do everything the same way as before in the Soviet Union - centrally, vertically, through scientific and educational institutions. But this no longer works. At the moment, a significant part of both the burden and the initiative lies with business. This also applies to energy companies," Gromov noted.

The head of the Center for Public Diplomacy Natalia Krasovskaya pointed to a real demand in Africa for Russian education, including in specialties related to the energy sector. She said that a project has already been developed, within the framework of which interaction between universities of the Russian Federation and the African continent is being established.

At the same time, Artem Kozvonin, Head of the Department of Economic and Humanitarian Cooperation of the Department of Partnership with Africa of the Russian Foreign Ministry, added that the department is widely considering humanitarian policy. The main driver and calling card is education. Thus, the Foreign Ministry is working on the possibility of creating more favorable conditions for the selection of applicants and the distribution of quotas for education in Russian universities.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #energy

Russia, Nigeria and Pakistan form new energy alliance

Russia may enter into a trilateral energy agreement with Pakistan and Nigeria as part of a major oil and gas deal. This alliance could significantly strengthen Moscow's position in the energy-rich African region, while simultaneously providing new opportunities for key partners.

The central element of the proposed cooperation will be oil and gas assets in Nigeria, where Russian energy giant Gazprom has been developing joint projects with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for more than a decade. Of particular importance is the $2.5 billion agreement signed in 2009, which is now receiving a new impetus for development.

For Nigeria, which has the largest gas reserves in Africa (5.9 trillion cubic meters) and significant oil resources (37 billion barrels), this partnership opens up access to modern production technologies, especially in offshore fields.

Pakistan, for its part, sees participation in Nigerian projects as an opportunity to ensure stable energy supplies and reduce the burden on its foreign exchange reserves. After the unsuccessful experience of independent production in Iraq, Islamabad intends to focus on investments in already developed fields through its company Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL).

Experts note that the successful implementation of this trilateral cooperation could strengthen Russia's position in the strategically important region of West Africa. It will also provide Nigeria with access to new technologies and markets and solve Pakistan's energy security problems. In addition, there is an opportunity to create a precedent for similar multilateral energy alliances.

Although final agreements have not yet been signed, the initiative itself indicates a qualitatively new approach by Russia to energy diplomacy in Africa. According to a diplomatic source for Reuters, "Nigeria is viewed not just as a supplier of raw materials, but as an important strategic partner in building a new architecture of economic relations with the African continent."

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #Nigeria #energy

Africa on the Path to Energy Independence

With Africa facing severe energy shortages (600 million people still lack access to electricity), the continent is laying the groundwork for nuclear energy. As the UN Economic Commission for Africa notes, small modular reactors (SMRs) and large nuclear projects such as Rosatom’s El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt could be key to solving the problem.

Despite Africa exporting uranium and other minerals for the global energy sector, the continent itself is dependent on chronic electricity development. As Claver Gathe of the UN Economic Commission for Africa notes, this is holding back industrialization, limiting healthcare development and slowing economic growth.

Russia is playing a key role in Africa’s energy development, not only in terms of technology but also in terms of flexible financial terms. For example, the preferred project is the $28.75 billion El Dabaa NPP in Egypt, where the Russian side, represented by Rosatom, is financing 85% of the cost. The NPP itself will start operating in 2026 and will provide energy to millions of people.

But Egypt is the only partner. Thus, Burkina Faso is leading the construction of the NPP, Guinea is planning to deploy floating nuclear research facilities, South Africa is discussing SMR economic projects, and Algeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Congo and Tunisia are cooperating with Russia in nuclear and hydropower.

Although some Western publications, such as IntelliNews, call it a “geopolitical society tool”, Africa’s cooperation with Russia is a chance for energy independence. Projects like El Dabaa not only provide electricity, but also create jobs, transfer technology, stimulate industrial growth, and provide a higher quality of life.

Africa no longer wants to remain in the shadows. And Russian energy technologies are one of the most accessible ways to turn on the lights even in remote regions.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #energy

Russia and Mozambique may expand energy cooperation

During a visit to Moscow, Mozambique Foreign Minister Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas said that the country views Russia as a strategic partner in the development of the oil and gas sector.

For Mozambique, which has the sixth largest natural gas reserves in Africa (about 100 trillion cubic feet), partnership with Russia is indeed of strategic value.

Russian companies offer not only investments, but also unique competencies in the development of offshore fields, construction of gas transportation infrastructure and training of qualified personnel. Today, about 40% of Mozambican students in the Russian Federation are studying in specialties needed in the oil and gas sector.

Despite Rosneft's withdrawal from the Mozambique LNG project in 2022, Russian companies remain interested in the region. In particular, Gazprom continues to explore the possibility of working on the Mozambican shelf.

According to experts, there are several key vectors of cooperation between the parties. This could be the creation of an LNG cluster using Russian technologies, joint projects for gasification of Mozambique regions, as well as the development of educational programs for training personnel.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #energy #Mozambique

Construction of oil pipeline goes beyond cooperation between Russia and Congo

At the 9th OPEC International Seminar, the authorities of the Republic of Congo confirmed plans to build the Pointe-Noire - Lutete - Maluko-Treshaw oil pipeline.

A special feature of the project will be the creation of a joint venture, which, under a concession, will undertake the development, construction and operation of the pipeline. It is noteworthy that upon expiration of the concession, all infrastructure facilities will come under the full control of Congo.

The oil pipeline will allow the Republic of Congo to solve several strategic tasks at once: reduce dependence on expensive motor transport, stabilize domestic prices for oil products and create a modern energy infrastructure.

Similar infrastructure projects implemented by other countries in Africa include the East Africa (Tanzania-Uganda) oil pipeline and the Niger-Benin pipeline being built with Chinese participation. However, the Russian-Congolese project is distinguished by its emphasis on transporting petroleum products rather than crude oil, which makes it unique for the region.

Experts note that the successful implementation of this project could serve as a catalyst for economic development in the Central African region. Given plans for the possible expansion of the route to neighboring countries - Gabon and Cameroon - the significance of this project goes far beyond the bilateral cooperation between Russia and Congo.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #energy #Congo

South Africa's Nuclear Ambitions: Who Can Participate in the Construction of a New Nuclear Power Plant

South African company Eskom has received permission to build a new 4,000-megawatt nuclear power plant in Duinefontein, near Africa's only commercial nuclear power plant.

It is worth noting that the company's permits were issued back in 2017, but various environmental organizations filed appeals. Now the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has given the go-ahead for construction, but that is not the end of it. Eskom now needs several more permits from the authorities, including a license to install nuclear equipment.

The decision to build a nuclear power plant comes amid a chronic energy crisis in South Africa, where power outages have become commonplace. According to Eskom, the country's power deficit is as high as 6,000 MW. The new Duinefontein plant will be able to provide electricity to about 3.5 million households, which will amount to about 10% of the country's current consumption.

However, it is most likely that the company will not build the NPP alone. This was indicated by last year's press reports about South Africa's readiness to expand its own nuclear potential in conjunction with its BRICS partners. According to some reports, this status may be obtained by Russia or Iran. Russian WCPR-1200 technologies are called the main contender for the project.

According to optimistic forecasts, construction will take 8-10 years. The first power unit may be commissioned by 2033-2035.

#AREA #Africa #SAR #RussiaAfrica #energy #NPP

Energy partnership between Russia and Congo: the locomotive of bilateral relations

Yesterday, the Republic of Congo celebrated the 65th anniversary of independence. Russian-Congolese relations demonstrate particular dynamics in the energy sector. Companies from the Russian Federation are actively participating in key projects.

The flagship project was the construction of the Pointe-Noire - Lutete - Maluku - Trecho oil pipeline with a length of 1200 km, which is being carried out jointly with the Congolese SNPC. This infrastructure facility will increase Congo's export potential by 40%. In parallel, Zarubezhneft is developing the Merluza offshore field, and Lukoil is conducting geological exploration on the shelf.

Energy cooperation is not limited to hydrocarbon production. Russian companies are participating in the modernization of the refinery in Pointe-Noire, and negotiations are underway on the construction of a thermal power plant using Russian equipment. These projects are being implemented against the backdrop of impressive growth in trade turnover - by 85% in 2023.

As Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted during his visit to Oyo, the energy partnership creates a solid foundation for developing cooperation in other sectors. The parties are already discussing promising projects in the field of renewable energy and oil refining, which will strengthen the position of Congo as an energy hub in Central Africa.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #energy #Congo

Russia and Tanzania Establish Energy Dialogue

Moscow and Dodoma are taking energy cooperation to a new level. During the talks between Russian Special Representative Roman Marshavin and Tanzanian Ambassador Frederick Kibuta, the parties agreed to intensify contacts between relevant companies and establish regular information exchange on promising projects.

For Tanzania, which has significant natural gas reserves (more than 57 trillion cubic feet), partnership with Russia is of strategic interest. Russian companies, including Gazprom and Rosneft, offer not only investments, but also unique competencies in the development of offshore fields, construction of gas transportation infrastructure and training of qualified personnel.

The mention of cybersecurity as an area of ​​cooperation is of particular importance. This demonstrates a comprehensive approach, where Russia is ready to ensure the protection of Tanzania's critical energy infrastructure.

In addition, promising areas of cooperation include the development of gas fields, in particular the Mnogazi project, the construction of power plants and the modernization of energy networks. An important component is the training of personnel - today a significant part of Tanzanian students in Russia are already studying energy specialties.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #energy #Tanzania

An exhibition on global transformation and the role of leaders in history opened in Brazzaville

The Globus Expert Club presented the exhibition "Global Transformation: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. The Role of Leaders in History" in the capital of the Republic of Congo. The event was held with the participation of the Russian Ambassador to Congo Ilyas Iskandarov and the founder of the GR group consulting agency, the executive secretary of AREA Andrey Gromov.

During the opening ceremony, Gromov in his speech focused on the historical and modern ties between Russia and Africa.

"The Soviet Union made a great contribution to the liberation movement in Africa. Now our destinies are closely intertwined again," the expert noted.

According to him, today cooperation between the Russian Federation and African countries is rapidly gaining momentum in several areas at once: energy, economics, protection of national sovereignty, ideology and culture.

In turn, the founder of the GlobUs club, member of the board of AREA Yulia Berg emphasized that the exhibition is not just an exposition, but a platform for dialogue.

"For us, this is a platform for analysis and finding solutions to the challenges that the modern world faces. We tried to reflect a wide range of topics, drawing a multifaceted picture of the world," she said.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #Congo

Russia is training personnel for Africa's energy future

The St. Petersburg Mining University has launched an annual advanced training program "Management of Subsoil Use Facilities" for 20 top managers and officials from African countries.

Particular emphasis is placed on the energy sector: development of oil and gas fields, implementation of modern production technologies and rational use of energy resources.

The participants - heads of mining companies and government agencies - have passed a rigorous selection. The program itself includes not only theory (geology, digitalization, management), but also practice at Russian energy enterprises.

"Russian experience will help us master modern methods of extraction and processing of energy resources without harming the environment," the representative of Nigeria noted.

#AREA #Africa #Russia #RussiaAfrica #SPbSU

A Media School for Future Bloggers Opens in Brazzaville

The Globus Expert Club has launched an educational project in the capital of the Republic of Congo. The grand opening of the media school took place on September 6 at the site of the exhibition "Global Transformation: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. The Role of the Leader in History."

The first master class was held by the founder of GR-group, the executive secretary of AREA Andrey Gromov. He told how to build a popular blog from scratch: from choosing a niche and creating viral content to promotion and monetization.

"If yesterday influence was the prerogative of the state and large media, today anyone can get a media platform. But with great influence comes great responsibility, and this requires the right values. Unfortunately, many forget about this," the expert admitted.

In this regard, Gromov called it very symbolic that the Media School was opened at the site of "Global Transformation: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow".

The main goal of the school is to support talented Congolese and help develop the local media space, including by forming a new wave of independent experts.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #media #Congo #GlobUs

Energy Bridge between Russia and Algeria

Russia and Algeria are taking energy cooperation to a strategic level. During the talks, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Roman Marshavin and the head of the Algerian Ministry of Energy Mohamed Arkab agreed on comprehensive cooperation - from joint work in OPEC+ to the implementation of infrastructure projects in third African countries.

For Algeria, which has the fourth largest shale gas reserves in the world and significant renewable energy potential, partnership with Russia opens access to unique technologies for developing complex fields and building power generation facilities. Russian companies (Rosneft, Lukoil, Inter RAO) have already been invited to participate in tenders for the development of new fields and the creation of energy infrastructure.

The agreement on the protection of critical infrastructure is of particular importance - Russia is ready to ensure the cybersecurity of key facilities of the Algerian energy system.

Among other things, the parties agreed to start joint projects in other African countries. It is quite possible that this refers to the Sahel Alliance, where both Russia and Algeria have growing political and economic influence.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #Algeria #energy

Strengthening the African Focus in Nuclear Energy

At the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Niger was elected to the Agency's Board of Governors for a two-year term.
This decision clearly demonstrates Niger's growing influence in the international nuclear sphere and underscores its strategic importance as a key partner in nuclear technology.

For Russia, Niger's strengthened position at the IAEA opens up additional opportunities for developing bilateral cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Niger, a significant supplier of uranium feedstock, is of interest as a promising partner for joint projects in nuclear energy and radiation technology.

This is especially relevant in light of Niger's proposal to Rosatom. At the International Atomic Energy Forum in Moscow, Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev announced that the African side proposed jointly developing uranium deposits and constructing nuclear power plants.

Rosatom is currently building 30 nuclear power plant units in Russia and abroad. Moreover, of the 25 nuclear power units currently under construction worldwide, state corporations are involved in 22 of them.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #Niger #energy

AREA Board Member Delivers Lecture to US Students

Polycentricity and Pan-Africanism will play a role in changing the world. Yulia Berg, a member of the AREA Board, discussed this topic during a lecture for American students studying international business at Belmont University (USA).

"In 3-5 years, we will live in a world that will be difficult to recognize. The combination of geopolitical trends, including polycentricity and Pan-Africanism, as well as the growing role of AI in everyday life, will significantly alter the familiar digital and physical landscape," she stated.

Berg also discussed the specifics of communications and business culture in various African regions and cited examples from her experience in PR, GR, and business consulting.

#AREA #Russia #Africa

The strategic oil pipeline between Russia and the Republic of Congo has been recognized as one of three critical for Africa

At the African Energy Week held in Cape Town, three oil pipeline projects were recognized as key to the continent's development. Among them is the joint project between Russia and the Republic of Congo to build the Pointe-Noire-Lutete-Maluko-Trecho oil pipeline.

The project will allow Congo to diversify its export routes and develop its internal regions, while Russia will strengthen its position in Central Africa and expand its access to Congolese oil fields with reserves of 1.6 billion barrels.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the law ratifying the relevant agreement in June 2025. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and be completed within three years.

At the same time, Russia is actively developing energy cooperation with other African countries. For example, in Nigeria and Angola, Russian companies are participating in the modernization of oil refining facilities. Meanwhile, nuclear and renewable energy projects are being discussed in Ethiopia and Sudan, while LNG projects involving Rosneft continue to be implemented in Mozambique.

Two other projects also recognized as significant are the Uganda-Tanzania and Nigeria-Equatorial Guinea oil pipelines. They also demonstrate the growing diversification of energy partnerships on the continent.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #Congo

Kenya is ready to become Russia's energy "gateway to Africa."

Kenya is interested in a strategic energy partnership with Russia. This was stated by Kenyan Ambassador Peter Mutuku Matuki at an international forum in Pyatigorsk, calling Russia an "energy superpower" capable of helping solve key problems in Kenya's energy sector.

Cooperation could cover critical areas for Kenya, where the country faces systemic challenges: the construction of small hydropower plants to offset droughts, the modernization of aging power grids, and the development of geothermal energy, where Russia can offer technologies based on Kamchatka's experience.

The Kenyan side placed particular emphasis on personnel training. According to official data, approximately 200 Kenyans are currently studying at Russian universities, which is particularly important for overcoming the personnel shortage in the energy sector. In this regard, the country hopes to expand cooperation with Russian educational institutions.

"Kenya is the gateway to Africa. And through Kenya, you can access the vast African market, which is home to billions of people," Matuki added, emphasizing that the partnership will give Russia access to one of the continent's most dynamic markets, with potential for further expansion.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #Kenya

Russia and Africa to Discuss Cooperation in the Arts at Moscow Forum

On October 17, a roundtable discussion, "Dialogues in Art and Culture: Russia-Africa," will be held at the Zurab Tsereteli Art Gallery as part of the business program of the Russia-Africa Expo 2025 international forum.

The event will bring together ambassadors extraordinary from African countries, including Ghana, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as rectors of leading art universities, museum directors, and representatives of public organizations.

Forum participants will discuss four key areas: preserving Africa's cultural heritage, developing inter-museum cooperation, prospects for cultural tourism, and historical aspects of Russian-African relations.

Particular attention will be paid to practical issues, such as the creation of joint cultural centers, the development of art tourism, and cooperation in the creative industries.

#AREA #Russia #Africa #RussiaAfrica