Delegations from 48 African countries attended the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow on October 28 and 29, with 22 countries represented by their heads of state. Discussions focused on trade, security, agriculture, energy and investment as Russia seeks to strengthen its relations with African countries.
Russian President Vladimir Putin presented Russia as a partner for African nations, pledging cooperation in local production, job creation and food security. Russia also reported delivering 200,000 metric tons of grain free of charge to six African countries following the 2023 summit, describing the delivery as a measure of progress from the previous gathering.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud did not attend the summit. Reports have suggested security challenges and disagreements over elections as possible reasons for his absence, although no official explanation has been provided.
Somalia already maintains partnerships with Türkiye, the United States, China, Japan and the European Union in areas including security, trade and development. Closer relations with Moscow could offer Somalia another avenue for pursuing its national priorities, including economic development, food security and institutional recovery.
However, the potential benefits for Somalia will depend on whether the summit’s broader commitments result in concrete bilateral agreements and practical cooperation.
The summit brought together representatives from across Africa to discuss areas of shared interest, with Russia seeking to expand its engagement with the continent.
Ultimately, the significance of the summit for African countries will depend on whether the commitments made translate into practical support, concrete bilateral agreements and projects that can be implemented.
