THE RETURN OF RUSSIA TO AFRICA: INSTITUTIONALISING A FRAMEWORK FOR RUSSIA-AFRICA RELATIONS IN A MULTIPOLAR WORLD ORDER

Research Problem The paper analyzes the main development vector of Russia-Africa relations amid the restructuring of the global order, built on the Soviet legacy of supporting Africa in the 20th century and adapting to the current challenges. The main research problem is a lack of legal and institutional frameworks to govern the emerging political and economic relations between Russia and Africa, help safeguard their sovereignty and reduce reliance on Western countries. Methods/theory As qualitative research, it adopted a systematic and structural-functional approach to examine historical relations between Africa and Russia from the decolonization to the post-Cold War era through analysing multilateral and bilateral treaties, political declarations and initiatives between Russia, the African Union, African countries and regional organizations within the framework of the multipolar world order. Results The paper reveals that while Russia-Africa has experienced a revival and significant expansion since its return to Africa in the 2000s, much of this effort remains generally fragmented and ad hoc and lacks established institutions to ensure sustainability. Additionally, legal and institutional frameworks are incoherent compared to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), a coordinating framework for Africa-China relations. Hence, it is unable to coordinate Russia’s geostrategic interest in Africa. The findings argue that a coherent legal framework could foster further cooperation and advance the post-colonial Russia-Africa relations of the 21st century. Conclusion The paper concludes that Russia-Africa during the Cold War era relationshas beenlargely hingedon decolonisation and solidarity. Since its revitalization in the 2000s. Africa has become a strategic masterpiece for Russia’s geostrategic and foreign policy goals in a shifting multipolar order. Russia lacks a coherent legal and institutional framework to coordinate robust and effect foreign policy within the purview of the Russia-Africa relations.Thus, a legal and institutional framework such as the FOCAC will provide a stronger coordination, inclusive and balanced collective position in international economic and political pursuits. Key Contribution to Knowledge The key contribution of this article lies in demonstrating the need for institutionalization the Russia-Africa relations to ensure mutual benefits for all parties. Recommendation The paper recommends developing a comprehensive legal framework starting with a Russia-African Union strategic partnership agreement to consolidate cooperation, institutionalize dialogue, and ensure long-term fruitful relations. The framework should define coordination andregulatory mechanisms common position in international politics, economic cooperation drawn from the success lesson from the Forum on China-AfricaCooperation to ensure mutuality, mitigate conflict and fragmentation.