The University of Nairobi has launched the Africa Centre for the Study of Russia, a new academic centre aimed at promoting research, dialogue and closer ties between African countries and the Russian Federation.
The launch ceremony was held on Wednesday in Nairobi and was attended by senior government officials, diplomats and scholars. Speakers at the event described the centre as an important step in strengthening relations between Africa and Russia.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei said the establishment of the centre was a historic moment for Kenya and the continent.
“It is a great honour to join you today for the launch of the Africa Centre for the Study of Russia at the University of Nairobi. Kenya is very pleased to host this important centre, one of the very few on the African continent that will facilitate dialogue between Africa and the Russian Federation,” he said.
Sing’Oei noted that Russia’s ties with Africa go back to the time when many African countries were gaining independence from colonial rule. He said the former Soviet Union supported African nations through education, technical training and political cooperation.
“At a pivotal moment when many African nations were charting the course of their sovereignty, the former Soviet Union extended important support through education, technical training and political cooperation,” he said.
He added that the relationship between Africa and Russia is rooted in a shared history of solidarity during Africa’s struggle for self-determination. Many African leaders and professionals, he said, received part of their education and training in Russia.
“These enduring human connections serve as a living testament to the longstanding bond between our peoples,” he said, noting that educational exchanges remain one of the strongest pillars of cooperation.
Sing’Oei also said Russia was not involved in Africa’s colonial history, adding that this has helped shape a partnership based on mutual respect. According to him, the new centre reflects growing cooperation between African countries and Russia, driven by shared social and economic goals.
He pointed to regular Africa–Russia ministerial meetings and summits as key platforms for deepening cooperation, especially at a time of changing global politics.
The Principal Secretary also highlighted Russia’s contribution to global culture, including its achievements in literature, music, philosophy and the arts. He said the new centre would provide an opportunity for scholars to study Russia’s intellectual traditions and their influence around the world.
“As we inaugurate this centre, it is fitting that we recognise this legacy and encourage deeper academic exploration,” he said, urging students and researchers to use the platform to inform policy discussions that benefit Africa and the wider international community.
Russian Ambassador to Kenya Vsevolod Tkachenko welcomed the initiative and praised the University of Nairobi as a respected institution of higher learning.
“University of Nairobi is unique because it is a highly respected educational model and provides the highest standards in education. You have a strong academic team of professors and teachers,” Ambassador Tkachenko said.
He added that the centre presents a promising opportunity for cooperation between leading Russian universities and one of Africa’s top academic institutions.
The Africa Centre for the Study of Russia is expected to promote academic research, policy discussions, cultural exchange and partnerships between institutions. Officials say it will position Kenya as an important hub for scholarly engagement between Africa and Russia.
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