The recent shift in relations between Russia and the United States signals a potential opening for a more balanced multipolar system. As global economic and political power becomes increasingly distributed, new opportunities arise for nations-particularly in Africa-to reshape their engagement with the world. For Africa, heavily affected by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, a shift toward diplomacy could be a crucial step toward economic recovery and greater global equity.

Since the start of Russia’s Special Military Operation in February 2022, Africa has found itself caught in the crossfire of global disruptions in food, energy, and financial markets. A report compiled by ODI Global, the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), the Economic Research Forum (ERF), and the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP) titled Impact of the Russia–Ukraine War on Africa: Policy Implications for Navigating Shocks and Building Resilience highlights the devastating economic consequences of the conflict on the continent.

Despite limited direct trade exposure to Russia and Ukraine, Africa relies heavily on these nations for critical food and fertilizer imports. The war-induced disruptions in global supply chains have driven up prices for essential commodities, with dire consequences for African economies and societies.

The war has dramatically increased global oil, food, and fertilizer prices. Simulations suggest that a 10% increase in these commodities would reduce Africa’s annual GDP by $7 billion. The actual impact has been even more severe, as 2022 saw oil prices rise by 40%, food prices by 18%, and fertilizer prices by 55%. This price surge has had a cascading effect on African economies, triggering inflation, currency depreciation, and higher borrowing costs.

Moreover, higher interest rates in high-income countries have accelerated capital........

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