Russia surpasses France in influence among young Africans: Ivor Ichikowitz

Russia's influence among young Africans has overtaken that of France, according to the African Youth Survey.

The survey found that 54 per cent of Africans aged 18 to 24 viewed Russia as influential, a rise from 44 per cent recorded two years ago. The African Youth Survey tallied 47 per cent influence for France. While the report notes Russia is now viewed warmly by many young people, China remains the most highly rated foreign power.

Furthermore, the report states that 86 per cent of these respondents described Russia as a strong or somewhat of an ally. Specific countries showed high levels of Russian influence, including 95 per cent in Burkina Faso, 69 per cent in Congo-Brazzaville, and 65 per cent in Chad, according to the report.

Additionally, the military junta in Niger, led by Abdourahamane Tchiani, ordered the United States to shut down its military bases in 2024.

Ivor Ichikowitz said, "Russia has achieved something that would have been difficult to imagine a few years ago," noting that Moscow has overtaken France in perceived influence. Respondents identified several priorities for foreign partnerships, with 43 per cent seeking economic value, 39 per cent wanting natural resources protected, and 34 per cent valuing respect for sovereignty, according to the survey.

The third edition of the Russia-Africa Summit took place in Moscow over Wednesday and Thursday, where Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted delegations from 48 countries. The summit drew 22 African heads of state to the capital.

Tighisti Amare said Russia has focused more on military and defence cooperation, but securing minerals, promoting alternative payment systems to bypass Western sanctions, and ensuring food and energy security have become equally important.

Robert Hamilton said, "Africa matters to both Russia and China now more than at any time in recent decades," adding that Moscow sought to "blunt isolation and profit from insecurity" while Beijing aimed to "consolidate an alternative global order and protect long-term investments." The 2026 edition of the African Youth Survey noted that the perceived influence of countries like China and India has grown since 2024.

Pew Research Centre reports that Africa has the world’s youngest population, with a median age of 19 years for its 1.5 billion people.