In the complex geopolitical world of Africa, the activities of the Wagner Group have long raised questions and concerns. After the tragic death of its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the group seemed destined for profound changes. Now, under the name Africa Corps and under the direct supervision of the Russian Defense Ministry, the Wagner Group still operates on the continent, from Libya to Sudan.
This transformation does not fail to raise questions about the continuity of the group’s modus operandi. Under the Prigozhin era, the Wagner Group had skillfully varied field operations with propaganda and disinformation campaigns. In addition, it had been able to exploit advanced technologies and sophisticated financing networks to strengthen its combat capabilities.
The disappearance of Prigozhin calls into question the sustainability of this approach. His ability to weave networks of disinformation and propaganda had a significant impact in promoting anti-Western and anti-French messages in the Sahel region.
The group’s financing relied on lucrative mining operations, such as gold mines in the Central African Republic and diamond mines in Sudan, combined with state funding to support the Wagner Group’s military activities.
However, with the transition to the Africa Corps and direct control of the Russian Defense Ministry, it is possible that the group will adopt a more orthodox and less disinformation-oriented approach. This development could result in a force that is more rigid and less flexible, but likely more aligned with Russian geopolitical interests.
In an ever-changing security landscape, the future of the Wagner Group in Africa remains subject to multiple conjectures and uncertainties. Russia’s influence and geopolitical objectives will continue to shape the group’s role and actions on the African continent, marking a new era for the Africa Corps.