Russia's arms sales to Africa have surged in recent years, with the country becoming the largest supplier of weapons to the continent. However, a new report by the Grey Report has revealed that not all African countries are equally enthusiastic about Russian arms. The report lists the top 10 African countries that have bought the least weapons from Russia, providing a nuanced view of the complex relationships between Russia and African nations.

According to the report, the Central African Republic and Guinea have purchased the least amount of weapons from Russia, with only one unit each between 2000 and 2021. Other countries on the list include Djibouti, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Equatorial Guinea, Zambia, Chad, Kenya, and Niger. These countries have imported a total of 122 units of Russian arms during the same period.

The increase in Russian arms sales to Africa is largely driven by bilateral military cooperation agreements, which often pave the way for the deployment of Russian mercenaries, such as the Wagner group, in African countries. The report notes that "illicit arms sales to Africa from Russia, illegal mining, and resource smuggling could increase as forms of sanctions-busting." This is particularly concerning given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the subsequent sanctions imposed on Russia.

Algeria and Egypt have been the largest importers of Russian weapons, spending around $7 billion and $4 billion, respectively, between 2016 and 2020. The Mo Ibrahim Foundation reports that roughly 45.2% of Africa's imports of weapons and ammunition came from Russia during the same period. This significant investment in Russian arms is likely driven by the desire to modernize military capabilities and counter security threats in the region.

However, the report also highlights the complex web of economic interests at play. Russia's commercial interests in Africa have grown in strategic importance as sanctions connected to Ukraine have affected Russia's domestic economy and caused disruptions to commerce in Western economies. The extensive sanctions placed on Russian financial institutions, including their exclusion from international payment systems like SWIFT, have also seriously upset Russian trade relations with Africa.

The list of countries with the lowest volume of arms imports from Russia is notable for its diversity, with countries from different regions and with varying levels of economic development. While some African countries have a vested interest in Russian military cooperation, others are more geared toward economic relationships and have little need for Russia's military influence. This nuanced approach to Russian-African relations is a welcome departure from the often-simplistic narratives surrounding the topic.

As the global landscape continues to shift, it remains to be seen how Russia's arms sales to Africa will evolve. One thing is clear, however: the complex relationships between Russia and African nations will continue to play a significant role in shaping the continent's security and economic landscape.