Russia Expands Influence in Africa After Prigozhin

One year after Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, the Kremlin has consolidated control over the Wagner Group, now rebranded as the Africa Corps, to maintain Russian influence in Africa, particularly in countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Despite a reduction in Wagner’s forces, the Russian Defense Ministry continues military operations and disinformation campaigns across the continent. Concurrently, the Roscongress Foundation has launched the Public Council under the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum to enhance diplomatic ties and collaboration between Russia and African nations as they seek to reshape their relations. However, Russian mercenaries face accusations of human rights abuses and resource exploitation in regions like the Central African Republic. Amidst this, new Russian media organizations are emerging, using cultural initiatives to sway public opinion in Africa and promote pro-Kremlin narratives. These developments illustrate Russia's strategic pivot towards Africa, especially as Western influence wanes in the region.