Russia plans to open eight new cultural centres in Africa. The move will expand its education, language and cultural programmes across the continent.
The new “Russian Houses” are planned for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Madagascar and Mali. They will also open in São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.
Russia already has 16 such centres across Africa.
The eight African centres are part of a wider plan to open 11 new Russian Houses around the world.
Eight new Russian cultural centres in Africa
Russia’s humanitarian cooperation agency, Rossotrudnichestvo, oversees the Russian Houses.
The agency says the centres promote Russian language, education, science and culture.
BBC Africa reported that eight of the 11 newly announced centres will be based in Africa.
Igor Chaika, head of Rossotrudnichestvo, said the agency is changing its programmes. It also wants to increase oversight and achieve stronger results.
In addition, Russia plans to work with local organisations to expand the network.
Education becomes a major focus
Education will be a key part of the expansion.
Russia plans to offer scholarships, university programmes and language courses. Cultural events and exchange programmes are also expected to play a role.
Chaika said programmes should reflect the needs of each country.
For example, training could focus on doctors in countries that need more medical professionals. Other programmes could target different skills depending on local demand.
Chaika also stressed the importance of students returning home after studying in Russia.
He said graduates could then use their skills to support development in their own countries.
Russia plans new grant programme
Rossotrudnichestvo also plans to launch a new micro-grant programme in 2027.
The programme will support education, culture, science, technology and youth projects abroad.
Meanwhile, the agency has signed an agreement with the Association for Economic Cooperation with African Countries.
The organisation supports business and economic links between Russia and African countries.
Russia has been expanding its relationships across Africa in several areas. These include trade, education, diplomacy, culture and security cooperation.
The new Russian Houses will add another element to those growing ties.