Moscow’s moves may impede Africa’s energy ambitions

Upstream projects may not benefit from Russia’s involvement, but South Africa might be seeking to become an importer of Russian molecules

Russia is engaged in a wide-ranging and diverse programme to expand its geopolitical and economic influence in Africa, an effort that has accelerated considerably since the Ukraine war marked a full rupture in relations with the West. And while Moscow is talking about energy projects and investments in sub-Saharan Africa—among other fields—the actual result of Russian involvement may be to slow, or even halt, oil and gas developments in the region. Russian influence in Africa is perhaps best known for the deployments of the infamous Wagner Group in various conflict zones. They often fight in return for control over lucrative mining operations, although the mercenary organisation also plays a