Key Facts
• June 25, Mauritania emerges as a strategic base for Ukraine’s Africa strategy.
• Since 2022, Ukraine has opened 8 new embassies in Africa, totaling 18.
• Mauritania’s embassy oversees food aid for 250,000 Malian refugees in the Mbera camp.
• Ukraine offers military training to Mauritania amid Mali tensions, where Russia supports the government.
• Russia deploys mercenaries and mining companies across West and Central Africa.
• Ukraine’s food aid program, “Grain from Ukraine,” has delivered 300,000 tons of grain to 12 countries.
• Black Sea port reopening doubled Ukraine’s grain exports to Africa in 2024, reaching 10 million tons.
• President Zelensky visited South Africa in April 2025, seeking cooperation in energy and security.
• Ukraine’s African strategy faces challenges, including limited resources and inconsistent diplomatic presence.
• Russia maintains 40 diplomatic facilities in Africa, with plans for 7 more.
• Ukraine’s exports to sub-Saharan Africa remain below pre-war levels, with North Africa dominating trade.
• Mauritania’s Ukrainian embassy relies on volunteers and donations for operations.
Summary
Ukraine is intensifying its engagement with African nations as part of its strategy to counter Russian influence. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, Ukraine has opened 8 new embassies in Africa, including one in Mauritania, which oversees food aid for Malian refugees. Ukraine’s “Grain from Ukraine” initiative has delivered 300,000 tons of grain to 12 African countries, competing with Russia’s food aid programs. The reopening of Black Sea ports in 2024 doubled Ukraine’s grain exports to Africa, reaching 10 million tons. Despite these efforts, Ukraine faces challenges such as limited resources, inconsistent diplomatic presence, and reduced exports to sub-Saharan Africa. Meanwhile, Russia continues to expand its influence with military and economic activities across the continent. President Zelensky’s visit to South Africa in 2025 marked a significant step in strengthening ties, but Ukraine’s African strategy remains a work in progress.
