As relations between the ruling juntas in the Sahel States Alliance (AES) and Western powers continue to worsen, Russia is ramping up economic initiatives to strengthen its influence in the region.
After it has reached security partnerships with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) – comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso – through military support and training to combat jihadist threats, Russia is now advancing its economic ties in the region.
A series of moves to reclaim control over natural resources, including the termination of contracts with Western mining firms like France's Orano and Canada's GoviEx, has cleared a path for Russian businesses to secure major deals. Over recent months, Russian companies have signed agreements in sectors ranging from renewable energy to agricultural processing, civil nuclear power, aerospace, and new technologies.
On October 28, Mali's transitional president, Assimi Goïta, welcomed a Russian delegation led by Irek Salikhov, Chairman of Yadran Group. Yadran, a conglomerate specializing in petroleum extraction, industrial infrastructure projects, and waste management, announced plans to build a gold refinery and a cotton processing plant in Mali. “Agreements have been reached with Mali for gold refining, fuel supply, and a cotton processing facility,” said Salikhov, adding that the official signing is set for the near future.
In May 2024, Russian firms began constructing a 200 MW solar power plant in Sanankoroba, near Bamako, covering 314 hectares. This project is expected to boost Mali’s electricity output by 10%. Further agreements include nuclear power plant construction for both Mali and Burkina Faso. Russian energy giant Rosatom has also struck training deals on civil nuclear energy in these countries.
Meanwhile, Rosatom is reportedly seeking uranium assets in Niger previously held by French firm Orano, according to sources cited by Bloomberg. The AES members are also exploring plans for a shared communications satellite to enhance telecommunications in remote areas, partnering with Russia’s Roscosmos space agency and its subsidiary Glavkosmos for training.
As Russia expands its influence, it faces competition from other emerging powers, particularly China and Turkey, which have also sought resource and infrastructure deals in the Sahel. In September, China signed agreements with Mali for digital infrastructure, solar energy, and arms, while Turkey is pursuing mineral exploration in Niger and strengthening defense ties with Burkina Faso.
With the AES turning away from Western alliances, Russia’s economic footprint in the region is growing. However, the competition for influence from other global players could intensify as the Sahel emerges as a strategic region for economic and security interests.
• Global coffee consumption projected to hit a record 169.4 million 60-kg bags in 2025/2026, up from...
• Investors seem to keep focusing on yields, which are high for the moment• New Leadership might see...
• Algeria grants commercial 5G licenses to top three telecom operators: Mobilis, Djezzy, and Ooredoo...
• ECOWAS Bank funds 47.7-km stretch of strategic 700-km road project• Lagos-Calabar highway seen boo...
• IFC teams up with AfDB and Nigeria’s EbonyLife to assess a new fund for African cinema• Sector cou...
South Africa signs a bilateral agreement with Austria to boost technical and vocational education and training (TVET). The partnership promotes...
Bomboré gold mine increased production to 56,236 ounces in H1 2025, up from 55,663 ounces in H1 2024. Orezone generated $177...
Burkina Faso promotes AI using local languages to increase inclusion. The initiative aims to train young technicians and expand digital...
Angola launches a $300 million World Bank-funded project to tackle urban challenges. The project focuses on improving governance, housing,...
Located about 40 kilometers from Cape Town’s city center, Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is one of the Cape Peninsula’s most iconic destinations. This...
The Gerewol tradition is a fascinating ritual celebrated by the Bororo Fulani, a nomadic community primarily located in Chad and Niger. This annual...