New SITE report explores Ukraine’s communication strategy in Africa
A new report from the Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE) at the Stockholm School of Economics examines how Ukraine has transformed its engagement with African countries since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and what lessons Sweden can draw from this experience.
The report, authored by SITE researcher Anna Anisimova, maps the key actors, narratives, and communication channels shaping Ukraine’s presence across the continent. It finds that Ukraine has shifted from a limited and largely reactive approach to a more strategic model built on diplomatic expansion, coordinated communication, and long-term partnership building.
Ukraine’s experience shows that effective communication in Africa is not primarily about countering disinformation. It is about building credibility through long-term engagement, understanding local priorities, and creating partnerships that are relevant to African audiences.
The analysis highlights the importance of proactive communication, local relevance, and sustained engagement. Rather than focusing primarily on countering disinformation, Ukraine has increasingly emphasized issues that resonate with African audiences, including food security, sovereignty, and economic cooperation.
The report concludes that effective engagement in Africa depends on credibility, local partnerships, and clear strategic priorities. For Sweden, the findings underscore the value of coordinated outreach, long-term commitment, and support for African media and civil society actors.
Download the report and appendix
The full report, Ukraine’s Strategic Communications in Africa: Actors, Narratives, and Lessons for Sweden, is available below:
- Full report (PDF)
- Annex A - Ukrainian Actors in Africa (CSV)
- Annex B - Ukrainian Narratives in Africa (CSV)
- Annex C Ukrainian Campaigns in Africa (CSV)
Contact
Anna Anisimova
Researcher, Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE),
Stockholm School of Economics
Email: Anna.Anisimova@hhs.se
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