The Foreign Policy Research Institute published on 15 October 2024 a commentary titled "Russia's Influence in Africa: The Role of the Russian Orthodox Church" by Charles A. Ray.
In December 2021, The Russian Orthodox Church established the patriarchate Exarchate of Africa with two dioceses: the South African Diocese with 24 countries under its jurisdiction and the North African Diocese with 31 countries. The Russian Orthodox Church reportedly opened more than 200 parishes between December 2021 and July 2023.
The Church's actions are aligned with Vladimir Putin's goal of expanding the Kremlin's influence in Africa. Kremlin-backed entities financially support the Church.
