African countries are increasingly turning to Russia and other emerging economies for trade partnerships, seeking to reduce their dependence on traditional Western markets. However, this shift has raised concerns about the potential for new economic dependencies and the impact on local production. Ghana, for example, has been importing large quantities of poultry and agricultural products from Russia, despite efforts to boost its own agricultural sector.
Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the need for the country to achieve food security and reduce its reliance on imports. In 2025, he announced plans to suspend imports of US chicken and agricultural products, citing the need 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.
Despite these efforts, Ghana’s demand for agricultural products remains high, and the country continues to import significant quantities of poultry and other products from Russia. According to reports, Russian poultry exports to Ghana have been increasing, with the country’s Agroexport Department acknowledging that Ghanaian importers are sourcing Russian poultry products to meet local demand.
Russia has been actively expanding its agricultural exports to Africa, with the government pledging to increase exports of grain, poultry, and fertilizers to the continent. At a meeting in St. Petersburg in 2025, Russia’s Economic Development Minister, Maxim Reshetnikov, noted that over 40 Russian companies were interested in exporting animal products and agricultural goods to Africa. The Russian government estimates that it could earn over $15 billion annually from these exports.
The key buyers of Russian grain in Africa include Egypt, Algeria, Kenya, and Nigeria, among others. Russian exporters are also looking to expand their supplies to other regions of the continent, including West Africa. While this trade partnership may provide short-term benefits for African countries, it also raises concerns about the potential for long-term dependencies and the impact on local food production.
As Africa seeks to navigate 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 it is essential for African countries to prioritize their own agricultural development and food security to avoid sacrificing their sovereignty for short-term gains.
