In a strategic pivot that could reshape tourism and diplomacy in southern Africa, Russia is set to extend visa-free travel to four key nations: Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini. The move is not only aimed at boosting tourism but also at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties in the region, while capitalizing on gaps left by U.S. visa restrictions.
Sangadzhi Tarbaev, head of the State Duma’s tourism committee, confirmed that negotiations are underway to add these countries to Russia’s growing list of visa-free partners on the continent. “Africa, with the exception of Egypt, is not a mass destination, but it does attract tourists,” Tarbaev told Russian media, highlighting the continent’s untapped potential for Russian travelers.
Interest among Russians in African travel has been gradually rising. Factors such as shifting preferences away from traditional European destinations and stronger political and economic ties with non-Western partners have fueled this trend. Tourism experts note that southern Africa, known for its rich wildlife, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage, remains largely underrepresented in Russian outbound travel.
Currently, Russia maintains visa-free arrangements with 11 African nations, including Angola, Botswana, Cape Verde, Mauritius, Malawi, Morocco, Namibia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Seychelles, Tunisia, and South Africa. Tatyana Dovgalenko, director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department for Partnership with Africa, emphasized that expanding visa-free access could further develop tourism and foster business and cultural exchanges.
“We are conducting further work with other countries and hope that this list will expand soon,” Dovgalenko said. “This initiative includes signing corresponding agreements and memoranda on tourism and cooperation.”
Critics argue that such initiatives could create financial barriers for citizens of affected countries. However, analysts view Russia’s move as a deliberate strategy to expand its influence in southern Africa, while counterbalancing limited French involvement and a cautious U.S. presence.
The inclusion of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini is expected to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, encourage business collaborations, and enhance Russia’s footprint in a region brimming with untapped tourism potential. As these visa-free agreements take shape, southern Africa may see a new wave of Russian visitors exploring its landscapes, culture, and wildlife, marking a notable shift in global tourism dynamics.
