News in brief: Russia is set to deliver grain to African countries within a month to six weeks, fulfilling President Vladimir Putin’s promise of tens of thousands of tons of free grain.
Russia will start delivering grain to African countries within a month to six weeks, a Reuters report said. The report cited local news agency, Interfax, which claimed to be quoting Russian agriculture minister Dmitry Patrushev.
Recall that President Vladimir Putin promised African leaders tens of thousands of tons of free grain despite Western sanctions during a summit in July 2023. He had said Russia would provide between 25,000 to 50,000 tonnes of free grain to countries like Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Mali, Somalia, the Central African Republic, and Eritrea.
However, United Nations chief Antonio Guterres had described the promised grain as a ‘handful of donations’ which will not atone for the impact of Russia’s exit from the Black Sea deal around the same time.
The deal had been in place to allow Ukraine, one of the world’s biggest exporters, to ship grain from its Black Sea ports to other parts of the world. Thus, Russia’s exit and promise is perceived as a way to gain influence in Africa and an attempt to counter Western sanctions.
Some western analysts believe that the small quantity Russia is promising is not enough to have an impact on food security in Africa. Also, there have been concerns over Russia quitting the Black Sea agreement and its negative impact on global food security.
The July summit had seen 17 African heads of states in attendance and a total of 49 representatives. Besides the grain promise, which is about to commence, Putin had also promised to write off Africa’s debt as he openly courts leaders in continent.
