The 2026 African Youth Survey, commissioned by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation and conducted by PSB Insights, has revealed a significant increase in the perceived influence of Russia among young Africans. The survey, which involved 4,901 face-to-face interviews with young people aged 18-24 in 16 African countries, found that 54% of respondents believe Russia has some or a lot of influence in their countries. This represents a 10-percentage-point increase from 2024 and surpasses the perceived influence of France, which stands at 47%.
The survey also found that 83% of respondents who recognize Russia's influence view it as very or somewhat positive. Furthermore, 86% of young Africans consider Russia a strong ally or, to some extent, an ally. These results indicate that Russia is viewed favorably by many young Africans, although China remains the most highly regarded foreign power. The survey's findings provide valuable insights into the attitudes of the next generation of Africans towards Russia and other foreign powers.
Despite the positive views of Russia, the survey also reveals widespread concerns about foreign interference in African countries. Eighty percent of respondents expressed concerns about the influence of foreign powers in their countries, up from 72% in 2024. This concern is particularly high in Mozambique, where 91% of respondents expressed worries about foreign influence, followed by South Africa (88%) and Liberia (85%). Even in Burkina Faso, where 95% of respondents recognize Russia's influence, 72% are concerned about foreign interference.
The survey's results also highlight significant variations in perceptions of Russia's influence across different African countries. Burkina Faso leads the list, with 95% of respondents recognizing Russia's influence, followed by Congo-Brazzaville (69%) and Chad (65%). In contrast, only 24% of young Liberians and 26% of young Somalis identify Russia as influential. These differences reflect the diverse relationships between African countries and Russia.
The survey's findings have important implications for Russia's engagement with Africa. According to Ivor Ichikowitz, founder and commissioner of the African Youth Survey, "The numbers are real and deserve to be taken seriously. Other capitals ignore them at their own peril." Ichikowitz emphasizes that young Africans welcome partners who can help them build their future, but they are cautious about foreign powers seeking to control them.
The survey also sheds light on what young Africans expect from foreign powers. When asked about the qualities that are most important in choosing an international ally, 43% of respondents selected the ability to invest in their country's infrastructure and economy. This is followed by respect for natural resources (39%) and democratic values and a strong human rights record.
The 2026 African Youth Survey provides a unique perspective on the attitudes of young Africans towards Russia and other foreign powers. As Russia's influence in Africa continues to grow, the survey's findings highlight the need for foreign powers to engage with African countries in a way that respects their sovereignty and priorities.
Key points
- Russia's influence is viewed positively by 83% of young Africans who recognize its influence.
- Eighty percent of young Africans are concerned about foreign interference in their countries.
- The survey involved 4,901 face-to-face interviews with young people aged 18-24 in 16 African countries.
