In South Africa, historical ties to Russia, particularly during the Cold War, shape public opinion. Figures like Sue Dobson signify the admiration for Russia’s past support of anti-apartheid efforts. Current sentiments showcase a mixed response towards Russia’s actions in Ukraine, with many African nations maintaining a level of sympathy due to historical anti-colonial narratives and contemporary anti-Western sentiments.
In South Africa, public opinion towards Russia has been significantly influenced by historical ties dating back to the Cold War. During this period, individuals like Sue Dobson, who was recruited by the African National Congress (ANC) to act as a spy, received specialized training in Moscow. Her experiences reflect the past admiration some South Africans have for Russia, particularly its role in supporting anti-apartheid efforts.
Dobson’s training involved learning surveillance techniques and engaging in exercises to enhance her skills. Despite a rigorous schedule, she managed to appreciate the beauty of Leningrad in winter when she visited in 1986. Upon her return, however, she faced danger when her connections to the ANC were discovered, prompting a desperate escape facilitated by Soviet diplomats.
Contemporary views of Russia in Africa starkly contrast with the responses of Western powers, which largely condemn its actions in Ukraine. A notable aspect of this sentiment is that only half of African nations opposed Russia at the United Nations during the outbreak of the conflict. This trend can be traced back to Russia’s historical support for various anti-imperialist and decolonization movements across the continent.
Moscow’s historical roots in Africa date back to the 19th century, where its stance during the Italo-Ethiopian War positioned it as an ally against colonial powers. However, some historians argue that this narrative is overstated, as evidenced by accounts of Russian adventurer Nikolai Leontiev’s involvement being more fictional than factual.
During the Cold War, the Soviet Union extended support to numerous anti-colonial struggles in Africa, providing aid to governments in Angola, Mozambique, and Egypt. This alignment was not merely ideological, but economically motivated as well, allowing the USSR to enhance its influence and acquire resources from allied nations.
Notably, the establishment of Patrice Lumumba University in Moscow demonstrated Russia’s commitment to educating African leaders, albeit amidst instances of racism that contradicted its anti-colonial propaganda. Despite these challenges, many African students still sought education in the USSR due to the perceived opportunities.
In South Africa, there remains a profound respect for the Soviet Union’s historical contributions to the ANC. The ruling ANC continues to adopt a neutral stance regarding contemporary Russia, possibly due to the closeness between former members and their Soviet training experiences. Grassroots support for Russia has even been evidenced by counter-protests against Ukrainian support rallies.
The Russian government has further solidified bonds with African nations through debt forgiveness and military presence in countries facing security issues, which, despite controversies, has been welcomed. Historian Oleksandr Polianichev suggests that this appeal of Russia’s anti-colonial narrative allows various elites to embrace it based on contemporary anti-Western sentiments, regardless of historical context.
Ultimately, Russia’s historical engagement with anti-colonial movements has created a complex and sometimes sympathetic narrative in South Africa and other African nations. This legacy influences contemporary views and political stances towards Russia, particularly amid the current geopolitical climate. The enduring relationships fostered during the Cold War and Moscow’s recent actions reflect a significant continuation of these historical ties, resonating with various political entities across the African continent.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
