The Russian Orthodox Church is making significant inroads into Africa, reflecting Moscow's increasing diplomatic and strategic ties in the region. This marks a departure from the Soviet era, where the focus was largely on promoting communist ideology, to now fostering an aggressive religious expansion. Since establishing the Exarchate of Africa in 2021, the Russian Orthodox Church has embarked on an expansive missionary work that has established approximately 350 parishes across 36 countries, all under the authority of the Russian headquarters thousands of miles away.

The move has gained momentum with countries like Cameroon granting the Russian Orthodox Church permission to operate, showcasing Moscow's efforts to build religious and political alliances in regions where Western influence has significantly waned. This expansion is not merely a spiritual endeavor but serves to intertwine religious authority with geopolitical strategy, positioning the church as a key player in the Kremlin's vision for Africa.

As the Russian Orthodox Church continues to establish a presence in more African nations, it reinforces a broader narrative of Russia reclaiming its influence on the continent. This development suggests that the Kremlin is leveraging the church as a tool for soft power, providing a counterbalance to Western traditions and narratives in a region that is increasingly seen as a geopolitical battleground for influence.