In February, Russian news agency Sputnik opened its first African editorial center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital.

Foreign policy experts opine that the move is a clear indication of Moscow’s deliberate intention to intensify its engagements with the African continent.

Boniface Muoka, chairperson of the Department of Security, Diplomacy, and Peace Studies at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya, observes that Russia’s media investment in Africa is not only about stamping Moscow’s diplomatic authority on the continent but also redefining Africa’s image.

“For decades, Western-owned and controlled media coverage of Africa has been skewed, biased, and unfair. Africa’s negative story has dominated Western media and the entry of Russia into this space is likely to turn the tide and show us the other side of the continent,” Muoka told RT.

Muoka adds that since Russia is not interested in “policing Africa,” its media investment will likely be focused on strengthening its relationship with the continent by telling Africa’s positive story.

“Through Sputnik, we are more likely to witness a story of good deeds by both Africa and Russia and not the usual........

© RT.com