Africa shifts to Russia for food imports amid dependency concerns

African countries are increasingly turning to Russia and other emerging economies for trade partnerships in an effort to reduce their dependence on traditional Western markets. This shift, however, has raised concerns about the creation of new economic dependencies and the impact on local production.

Ghana illustrates this tension. Despite efforts to boost its own agricultural sector, the country has been importing large quantities of poultry and other agricultural products from Russia. President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the need for food security and a reduction in reliance on imports. In 2025 he announced plans to suspend imports of U.S. chicken and agricultural products to support local farmers and promote sustainable food production. The government has also launched initiatives such as the 24‑Hour Economy and the Big Push Agenda, aimed at modernizing agriculture and increasing productivity.

Nevertheless, Ghana’s demand for agricultural products remains high, and imports from Russia continue to grow. The Agroexport Department reports that Ghanaian importers are sourcing Russian poultry to meet local demand. Russia, for its part, is actively expanding agricultural exports to Africa. At a 2025 meeting in St. Petersburg, Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov noted that more than 40 Russian companies were interested in exporting animal products and agricultural goods to the continent, estimating potential earnings of over $15 billion annually. Key African buyers of Russian grain include Egypt, Algeria, Kenya and Nigeria, and Russian exporters are seeking to expand supplies to other regions, particularly West Africa.

While this trade partnership may offer short‑term benefits for African nations, it also raises concerns about long‑term dependencies and the effect on local food production. As Africa navigates its complex relationships with global powers, the debate over food sovereignty and geopolitical solidarity is likely to continue. With its large and growing consumer market, Africa presents a significant opportunity for Russian exporters, but African countries must prioritize their own agricultural development and food security to avoid sacrificing sovereignty for short‑term gains.