MOSCOW, Russia — African journalists attending the Third Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian Forum have drawn lessons from Russia’s cultural heritage and preservation of national identity after touring Moscow’s iconic historical landmarks.
The journalists, representing various African countries, visited the Kremlin, Red Square and the State Kremlin Palace. During the cultural programme, they witnessed the changing of the Kremlin’s mounted and foot guards and explored architectural monuments reflecting centuries of history.
The tour offered participants an opportunity to appreciate how Russia preserves its cultural identity while embracing modernity, challenging them to reflect on Africa’s own heritage.
Zimbabwean journalist Panashe Nagoli said the tour demonstrated the importance of ensuring that cultural heritage remained central to a country’s development.
“What we’ve seen over the past few hours is that this is a country, a city and a people that are deeply rooted in their culture,” Nagoli said.
“They have been able to preserve their identity and their culture over all these years. When you look at all the ceremonies they have been holding and the buildings they take us through, you realise that there is a cultural context, a historical context and an identity issue to it.”
Nagoli added that African countries could draw valuable lessons from Russia’s approach, particularly in promoting pride in their history, languages and traditions.
“I think that is something that, as Africans, we can actually take home, to be proud of who we are, to be proud of our culture, to be proud of our identity and to carry that forward,” he said.
He noted that everyday aspects of Russian life, including the exclusive use of the domestic language on traffic signs and public information, demonstrated the importance attached to national identity.
“We were laughing as we were on our way here, saying that all the traffic signs and everything written here are in their own language. There is no English. They are speaking their own language.
“That is something that, as Africans, we can actually look up to and ask ourselves: Who are we as Zimbabweans? Are we proud enough of our culture? Do we know our culture and our history? And can we convey that to people who come to our country, as has been done here?” Nagoli said.
He said the cultural programme provided a foundation for the broader engagements expected during the week-long summit, where African leaders meet their Russian counterparts to explore cooperation.
“We continue to see more, particularly when we see the heads of State arrive and engage with their Russian counterparts and see where they can deepen relations and collaboration across various sectors,” he said.
For Rwandan journalist Elia Byukusenge, who was visiting Russia for the first time, the tour provided insights to enrich his professional reporting.
“For sure, it is my first time to be here in Russia. Just to visit this area is a great thing for me because I have learnt about their culture and something about their history,” Byukusenge said.
“Visiting this area around the Kremlin is a big thing for me. It is a big memory for me. It will help me as a journalist to report on the culture and history of this country. It is a good journey, I think, and I hope to work here again.”
Malawian journalist Yamikani Stanley Simutime said the experience offered a different perspective on Russia, contrasting with common international narratives.
“Unlike what people say about Russia, associating it with war, that is different from what we have seen on the ground. Moscow is peaceful and a beautiful city, rich in history,” Simutime said.
“We have seen a lot of buildings with historical significance.”
Guiding the delegation through the complex was Irina Obydenkova, a museum research fellow. She described the Kremlin as the historical and political heart of Russia, extending beyond its role as the seat of leadership.
“The Kremlin is the centre of Moscow. Moscow is the capital of Russia, ancient Russia and modern Russia, and our President works on the territory of the Kremlin,” Obydenkova said.
She explained that the Kremlin functions as both an ancient fortress and a town, housing unique monuments that have survived different historical periods.
“It is an ancient fortress and a town at the same time. There are a lot of unique monuments which have survived from different periods of our history on the territory of the Kremlin,” she said.
Among the preserved landmarks are historic palaces of Russian rulers, prominent churches, and Cathedral Square. Obydenkova noted that the complex houses distinctive monuments, including the Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon, which are among the largest and heaviest in the world.
She also highlighted the blend of architectural influences, including structures built by Italian architects approximately 500 years ago.
“The walls of the fortress, churches and part of the palace were built by Italians,” she said.
Obydenkova concluded that despite Moscow’s transformation into a modern metropolis, the Kremlin has retained its position as the ancient centre of the city.
