Angola stands firm against Russia's propaganda offensive

In the heart of Africa, Angola has found itself at the centre of a geopolitical storm, serving as a case study for the efforts of authorities to curb Moscow's influence peddling. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in July 2023, marked by widespread protests and unrest.

The capital city, Luanda, witnessed a chaotic scene on 28th July, with widespread looting resulting in an estimated 30 deaths, over 200 injuries, and 1200 arrests. Large protests took root in the country due to a 33% rise in petrol prices and a government effort to cut fuel subsidies, aiming to reduce debt.

Amidst this turmoil, two Russians, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Racthin, were arrested in Luanda on August 7th, 2022. The Angolan authorities have accused these individuals of being involved in disinformation that increased tensions during the protests. The Russians were held on suspicion of financing, recruiting, and training a disinformation and propaganda network.

The alleged network's operations were reportedly facilitated by Farol, an NGO focused on cultural cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries. Farol is accused of being used as a front to recruit and train the disinformation network. The Viginum report states that the activities of the Wagnar Group, suspected to be connected to this network, are still ongoing, but in a different form. These activities are likely to be integrated into the Russian state's sphere of influence, according to the Viginum report.

The African Initiative news agency, a key player in the dissemination of Russian propaganda in Africa, is another crucial piece of this puzzle. Created in September 2023, this Russian news agency based in Moscow is suspected of having ties with Russian intelligence services. African Initiative works to disseminate and promote classic anti-Western and pro-Kremlin propaganda through its various channels in several languages, including French.

The new system, centred around the African Initiative, is a testament to Russia's continued efforts to maintain its influence in Africa. Rossotrudnichestvo, a federal agency responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and cultural exchange, was created by Presidential decree on September 6, 2008, with the aim of maintaining Russia's influence in its republics and outside the federation's borders.

However, as of now, there are no publicly available or credible records identifying specific Russian individuals who allegedly established network activities for propaganda and disinformation in Angola in July 2023. This lack of concrete evidence underscores the challenges authorities face in combating such covert operations.

As the dust settles in Angola, the world watches with bated breath, awaiting the outcome of this intricate web of geopolitical intrigue. The story of Angola serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers of foreign influence in domestic affairs, and the ongoing struggle to maintain national sovereignty in an increasingly interconnected world.