Kenya among African markets targeted by Moscow exporters

Nairobi, Kenya - Russian exporters have recently forged 81 export agreements, worth approximately Sh10.5 billion, with partners across 15 African nations since 2019, according to the Moscow Export Center. This figure represents just a fraction of the 2.2 billion roubles ($22.6 million) in exports to Africa through the center's initiatives during the first nine months of 2026.

With 43.1% of Russia's high-value-added product exports to Africa in 2025 coming from Moscow, the city has firmly established itself as a key player in the African market. Egypt emerged as the primary destination for Moscow's exports, securing 2.6 billion roubles from 38 contracts. Other notable markets include Congo, Sudan, Algeria, Uganda, South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Tanzania, Libya, Kenya, Burundi, Angola, and Cameroon.

In terms of growth, Kenya and Algeria have witnessed the most significant expansion in Moscow's exports, though the center has not disclosed specific figures for either country. The range of products shipped to African markets is diverse, encompassing medical equipment, veterinary medicines, skincare items, water treatment systems, and digital services. Additionally, Moscow-based companies are exporting cybersecurity solutions, including systems designed to counter distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

The Moscow Export Center, established in 2017 to facilitate Moscow's businesses in international markets, has played a pivotal role in this expansion. Director General Vitaly Stepanov revealed that the center has inked 81 contracts with African partners since the programs were extended to the continent in 2019. Furthermore, the center has provided 1,670 services to Moscow companies venturing into African markets, including trade missions, training sessions, and financial assistance.

Scheduled to take place in October, the center will host a trade mission featuring Kenyan partners. Moreover, Moscow will host its inaugural international conference, "Moscow–Africa: Business Ties for Mutual Development," on October 30, further solidifying the city's role as a hub for African business development.