How Russia resorted to cleverly messaged communications targeting Africa after Wagner

Russian President Vladimir Putin and several African leaders attend the Navy Day parade in Saint Petersburg on July 30, 2023. [AFP]

On September 11, 2024, a social networking app was launched at the University of Nairobi, which now appears to be an extension of Russia’s covert influences in African countries.

The marketers of the app said the new service, going by the name AFree was designed for the African market, featuring instant messaging, calling, video calling, and video conferencing.