African Students in Moscow Frame Ties With Russia as Personal
As the summit approaches, graduates and lecturers describe a relationship built on daily life, medical training, and cultural exchange rather than just diplomatic strategy.
By Rafael Bailey ·
The corridors of the Patrice Lumumba Peoples' Friendship University in Moscow offer a view of African-Russian relations that differs from diplomatic summits. Students there speak Russian, English, Arabic, and dozens of African languages. Campus life includes national celebrations, cultural showcases, and student clubs. One graduate described the environment as a mini-city.
For many Africans studying or working in the capital, the connection is defined by personal experience rather than geopolitical abstraction. Keturah Musonda, a Zambian medical graduate, said she does not regret coming to Russia. She called Moscow one of the best cities in the world, citing its transport system and range of events. Her time at the university combined medical studies with theatre, singing, and student union activities.
Musonda highlighted the Russian healthcare system, specifically the easy access to ambulances and investment in specialized equipment. She noted a strong focus on paediatrics, contrasting it with her home country where she and her family had never called an ambulance. Her studies were funded by a Russian government scholarship programme that allows foreign applicants to apply online and compete for university places through national authorities.
Chinyama Kazombo, a Zambian medical student, described Russia as a place where he can realize his potential. Over five years, he has formed friendships with people from China, Asia, Russia, and Africa. He participated in events introducing Russians to Zambian culture, including a celebration of Zambia's independence anniversary. Kazombo aims to return home to serve as a qualified doctor, but he expects Russia to remain part of his life. He stated that he will be working with Russians through his entire life.
Abobakr Mohamed Abbakar Khussein, a Sudanese lecturer in Moscow, sees the relationship moving in a pragmatic direction. He noted that Sudan's ties with Russia date back 70 years, shortly after Sudanese independence. He cited Russian archaeological work on ancient pyramids and the training of Sudanese specialists. However, he warned that the war in Ukraine has disrupted grain and cooking-oil exports, threatening food security across Africa.
Aaron Kasonde, a Zambian assistant professor at the university, believes agriculture could become a central area of cooperation. He noted that Africa has vast arable land and a young population with an average age of about 19. The continent needs fertilisers, irrigation systems, and investment. Kasonde argued that Russia, a major wheat and fertiliser producer, could help through technologies that raise yields and grain exports.
Hafi Ahmed from Kenya emphasized cultural exchange and broader economic cooperation. She said Kenya has an educated workforce, skilled medical professionals, and natural resources. She believes Kenyans and Russians have more in common than many assume, a view reinforced by her close friendship with a Russian. These individuals seek cooperation that delivers measurable benefits, including qualified professionals, modern healthcare, and food security.
