African bloggers to use digital skills to strengthen Russia-Africa ties (PHOTOS)

The participants of a media workshop in Bryansk have urged young Russians to explore Africa, citing the need for cultural exchange

African bloggers in Russia have said they intend to use their digital media platforms as a “bridge” to promote cultural exchange and deepen public understanding of growing ties between Moscow and African countries.

The commitment followed the ‘From Kilimanjaro to Desna: Content School’ workshop held July 16-20 in Bryansk, Russia, where 30 African media students, bloggers, and aspiring content creators were trained in digital storytelling, video production, and social media strategy. It was organized by the African Initiative News Agency, the African Union of Bloggers, the Union of Bloggers of Russia, and Bryansk State University of Engineering and Technology.

Kevin Abala, a Cameroonian journalist who took part, said he plans to publish content that helps “Russian and African people know more about each other.”

“We have the possibility to write well the history of Africa because there is a fake conception of Africa. It’s our generation to say that we are a new Africa, Africa who thinks, Africa who believes,” Abala added.

Togolese blogger Germain Koffi Adediha said the skills gained will help him continue “showing the realities” in Russia on his Telegram channel, where he shares his experience of studying in the country and provides information to others seeking similar opportunities.

He noted, however, that while Russia is expanding cooperation in several areas with African countries, including Togo, partnerships in education remain one-sided.

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“The main field through which Russia is collaborating with Africa is education. This education must be reciprocal. You from Africa are learning in Russia and we need young people from Russia to know more about Africa,” Adediha said.

“We have lithium, yes, but also culture and stories,” Namory Tamba Keita from Mali said, adding that his country’s cultural contributions could strengthen relations with Moscow, which is already supporting Bamako in military and energy cooperation.

Participants of the workshop also developed group projects on expanding Russia-Africa ties, competing for cash prizes ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 rubles ($250-$600). Organizers said the winning proposals will be submitted for funding and implemented jointly with the bloggers.