Ukraine expands alliances with African countries through grain shipping initiative
Ukraine is intensifying efforts to strengthen its alliances with African nations amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia and a shifting geopolitical landscape.
One key initiative involves expanding its grain shipment program, aimed at alleviating food shortages in countries affected by the war. As part of this strategy, Ukraine plans to double its number of embassies in Africa, adding between 10 and 12 new diplomatic missions this year, Semafor Africa reports.
The disruption of grain transportation due to the conflict has led to higher food prices in African countries, prompting Ukraine to collaborate with the World Food Programme to deliver grain to nations such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Sudan.
“We’re working alongside WFP to plan deliveries to Mozambique, Mauritania, Djibouti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Malawi,” Ukraine’s Deputy Agrarian Minister, Markiyan Dmytrasevych, said while noting that over 200,000 tons of grain had already been delivered.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to make his first state visit to Africa in the coming months, to reinforce Ukraine's commitment to strengthening ties on the continent.
Commenting on the upcoming visit, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor expressed optimism about President Zelensky's forthcoming trip to South Africa, highlighting the potential for expanding engagement with Ukraine.
“In the next few months, I believe President Zelenskyy will be coming to South Africa because he’d like to strengthen and expand the engagement,” Pandor said.
Ukraine has been collaborating with the World Food Programme to deliver essential grain supplies to African nations severely impacted by food shortages, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Sudan.
