Russia has been actively expanding its nuclear influence in Africa, signing cooperation agreements with several countries on the continent. According to a recent report, Russia has entered into nuclear deals with at least 15 African nations, including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, Nigeria, Ghana, Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Namibia, and Zambia.

The agreements aim to employ nuclear technology for various initiatives, such as energy generation, medicinal applications, and agricultural developments. This move is seen as a strategic effort by Russia to increase its economic, political, and military presence in Africa, a continent rich in natural resources and emerging markets.

The report highlights that several African countries have both military and nuclear agreements with Russia, underscoring the country's push to imprint its influence on Africa's economic identity. Recent examples include Russia's deal with Uganda to construct a nuclear power plant and its nuclear agreement with the Congo Republic, signed in July 2024. Algeria's Ministry of Energy also signed a memorandum of cooperation with Rosatom, Russia's state-owned energy company, in March.

For many African countries, nuclear energy provides a stable and permanent solution to chronic power shortages, promoting industrialization and economic progress. This is particularly significant, as Western partnerships have not yielded the desired results in terms of economic development. The growing number of nuclear cooperation agreements between African nations and Russia has numerous ramifications, including the potential to reshape the continent's energy landscape.

The Grey Zone Report, which provided the list of African countries with nuclear cooperation agreements with Russia, notes that key indicators of Russian diplomatic engagement in Africa include military cooperation agreements, arms sales, and energy deals. The report suggests that Russia's increasing influence in Africa is a result of its strategic efforts to expand its economic, political, and military reach on the continent.

The implications of Russia's nuclear expansion in Africa are far-reaching. As the continent continues to grapple with energy shortages and economic development challenges, the influx of nuclear technology and investment from Russia could have a significant impact on the region's future. However, it also raises concerns about the potential risks associated with nuclear energy, including safety, security, and environmental issues.

As the global competition for influence in Africa intensifies, Russia's nuclear cooperation agreements with African countries are likely to be a key area of focus in the coming years. With its strategic partnerships and investments, Russia is poised to play a significant role in shaping the continent's energy future and solidifying its position as a major player in global politics.