Moscow plans to expand its network of Russian Houses to eight more African countries, deepening its cultural and educational ties across the continent.

Russia is set to expand its cultural and educational presence across Africa, planning to establish eight new “Russian Houses” in countries across West, East, and Central Africa.

The new cultural centers are planned for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo, according to Rossotrudnichestvo, Russia’s federal agency responsible for international humanitarian cooperation.

Eight African Countries to Get New Russian Houses

The centers are designed to promote the Russian language and culture while expanding opportunities for educational, scientific, and academic cooperation.

They are also expected to provide information on Russian university programs and scholarships, as well as opportunities for collaboration between universities and other institutions in Russia and Africa.

The eight planned locations will expand an existing network of Russian Houses already operating in several African countries.

Russia Plans Micro-Grants for African Projects

Rossotrudnichestvo also plans to introduce a micro-grant program in 2027 to support local initiatives and projects.

The program is expected to complement broader partnerships between Russian institutions and African organizations.

Through the expanded network, Moscow is seeking to increase access to its educational and cultural programs while developing longer-term institutional links across the continent.

Russia Expands Cultural Engagement Across Africa

The Russian Houses initiative forms part of Moscow’s broader effort to strengthen its relationships with African countries beyond traditional areas such as trade and security cooperation.

Russia has increased its diplomatic and cultural engagement across Africa in recent years, including through education, media, and humanitarian programs.

The planned centers will provide Moscow with additional institutions through which it can promote Russian language programs, educational opportunities, and cultural initiatives.

For African students and institutions, the expansion could also provide additional access to scholarships, academic exchanges, and scientific partnerships with Russian universities and organizations.

With eight new Russian Houses planned, Russia is set to broaden its cultural and educational footprint across Africa as competition for diplomatic, economic, and institutional partnerships on the continent intensifies.