Russia’s Historical Influence and Its Anti-Colonial Narrative in South Africa

In South Africa, sympathy for Russia is shaped by historical ties from the Cold War, particularly through the ANC’s anti-apartheid struggle. This article discusses the experiences of Sue Dobson, a spy for the ANC, and highlights Russia’s historical support for anti-colonial movements in Africa. The current geopolitical landscape reveals that grassroots pro-Russian sentiments persist, reflecting the continuing influence of Russia in the region.

In South Africa, sympathy for Russia during its war in Ukraine has historical foundations dating back to the Cold War. A notable figure, Sue Dobson, was recruited by the African National Congress (ANC) in 1986 to serve as a spy against the apartheid regime. Her mission led her to receive training in Moscow, focused on surveillance skills, and although she was under significant pressure, she managed to experience the beauty of Leningrad in winter.

Upon returning to South Africa, Ms. Dobson worked in the apartheid regime’s Bureau of Information, which allowed her access to influential figures. However, her cover was compromised in 1989 due to her family’s ANC ties, leading her to escape to Botswana, aided by Soviet diplomats before flying to the United Kingdom.

While Ms. Dobson refrains from commenting on Russia’s contemporary invasion of Ukraine, it is known that sympathy for Russia is evident in Africa. Only half of African nations condemned Russia at the United Nations when the war commenced, signifying a complex historical relationship stemming from Russia’s advocacy for anti-imperialist movements.

Russia’s historical support for anti-colonial causes is notable, beginning as early as the 19th century when it backed Ethiopia during the Italo-Ethiopian War. However, some historians argue that Russia’s involvement, particularly in Ethiopia, has been exaggerated.

During the Cold War, the Soviet Union endorsed various anti-colonial struggles across Africa, including providing support to nations such as Angola and Mozambique. The USSR’s backing of these movements was driven partly by a desire to counter Western influence while also serving its strategic interests.

Additionally, the Soviet Union established Patrice Lumumba University in Moscow to educate African students, providing scholarships despite reports of racism within Soviet society. This created a tension between the USSR’s anti-colonial image and its internal issues.

The ANC, now South Africa’s ruling party, retains a sense of historical loyalty towards the Soviet Union due to its support during the anti-apartheid struggle. Consequently, the South African government has adopted a neutral stance on the conflict in Ukraine, which may reflect enduring sympathies toward Russia.

Grassroots support for Russia is also observed; pro-Russian sentiments have emerged in protests across South Africa. Russia’s debt forgiveness for several African nations and military presence in regions such as Mali have bolstered its appeal across the continent, tapping into the narratives of anti-colonialism that resonate with many leaders and societies, despite conflicting historical realities.

The article explores the complex historical roots of Russia’s sympathetic perception in South Africa, stemming from ties established during the Cold War. It highlights Sue Dobson’s experiences as a spy for the ANC and the Soviet Union’s involvement in anti-colonial struggles across Africa. This historical legacy, combined with contemporary geopolitical dynamics, has enabled Russia to maintain influence in the region. Ultimately, the enduring sentiments towards Russia reflect a broader narrative of anti-colonialism that resonates with many in African societies.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com