Moscow Prepares for a Major Dialogue: What to Expect from the Russia–Africa Forum in October

At the end of October, Moscow will become a meeting point for politicians, business leaders, academics and young leaders. The third Russia–Africa Forum is scheduled to take place on 28–29 October 2026 at the historic Gostiny Dvor venue on Ilyinka Street.

This is more than a series of meetings: it is a large-scale dialogue on the future of the partnership, covering everything from security and energy to education and digital solutions.

Who Is Shaping the Agenda?

The geographical scope of representation is impressive, with delegations from more than 30 African countries expected to participate. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate the composition of the participants to cover as many areas of cooperation as possible.

The participation of several key leaders has reportedly been confirmed:

● Ibrahim Traoré (Burkina Faso);

● Assimi Goïta (Mali);

● Abdourahamane Tchiani (Niger);

● John Mahama (Ghana).

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi (Egypt), Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno (Chad), as well as delegations from South Africa, Gabon and Guinea-Bissau, are also expected to attend.

However, the Forum is not limited to high-level negotiations. Its strength lies in its diverse formats and the involvement of different communities.

Diplomats and government officials will work on intergovernmental mechanisms and the legal frameworks for cooperation.

The business community will establish direct contacts. Corporations, investors and representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises will discuss projects capable of delivering tangible results, from logistics to agricultural technologies.

Science and education will focus on joint research and professional training, including new scholarship opportunities, academic exchanges and university network programmes.

Culture and media will strengthen the human dimension of the partnership through film, music, journalism and creative industries.

Young people will have their own programme, allowing students and young entrepreneurs to present fresh ideas and find partners for pilot projects.

What Will Be Discussed?

The Forum’s main objective is not simply to exchange statements, but to establish concrete steps. A central document will be a new action plan for the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum for 2027–2029.

In essence, it will serve as a roadmap with measurable objectives and clearly defined responsibilities.

An important step towards developing practical business cooperation will be the III International Business Forum Russia–Africa Expo 2027, scheduled for 27–28 May 2027 in Moscow, at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation.

While the October meeting will help define the strategic priorities of the partnership, the May Forum will provide a platform for developing business initiatives, establishing direct contacts and advancing joint projects involving Russian and African companies.

Particular attention will be paid to trade, investment and cooperation between Russian regions and African countries.

Key areas requiring swift decisions and clear mechanisms include:

Security and counterterrorism. The Sahel region remains a major area of concern. Discussions will focus on coordinating efforts and exchanging experience.

Economy and infrastructure. Trade, investment and joint industrial projects can create jobs and contribute to economic growth.

Energy. From nuclear energy solutions to renewables, Africa needs reliable and scalable energy sources, and Russia has technologies that may contribute to meeting this demand.

Food security and agriculture. Practical projects in crop breeding, irrigation and food processing can help reduce dependence on imports of essential food products.

Humanitarian cooperation. Education, science, healthcare and culture represent long-term investments in trust and mutual understanding.

Digital technologies. Digital solutions in public administration, education and business processes can deliver tangible development benefits.

The Forum’s programme is designed to move from general statements to concrete agreements. Alongside plenary sessions, specialized discussions, round tables and business forums will take place. These platforms will allow participants to work out project details and prepare agreements for signing.

Moving forward, these areas of cooperation will require sustained business dialogue, partner identification and practical implementation mechanisms.

The Russia–Africa Expo 2027 will contribute to this process by bringing together businesses, investors, industry associations and regional representatives interested in expanding economic ties between Russia and Africa.

Where to Stay Informed

To keep up with important announcements, session schedules, and information about signed agreements, readers are encouraged to follow the Forum’s official website: https://summitafrica.ru. It provides not only official announcements but also practical information, including accreditation requirements and venue navigation.

Those interested in strengthening Russia–Africa business cooperation should also take note of the III International Business Forum Russia–Africa Expo 2027, which will take place on 27–28 May 2027 in Moscow, at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation.

Participation will offer an opportunity to establish direct business contacts, discuss promising areas of cooperation and identify partners for joint projects. Companies, investors and organisations interested in participating can find information about the event and participation arrangements on the official website: https://rusafro-expo.ru.

Russian President Vladimir Putin clearly expressed the importance of the partnership:

“We highly value the results of our joint work at the summit. I am confident that the results achieved provide a solid foundation for further deepening the Russia–Africa partnership in the interests of the prosperity and well-being of our peoples.”

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