Dr. Chisala Bwalya Speaks on Zambia–Russia Collaboration in a Multipolar World
Dr. Chisala Bwalya, Research Director at the Zambia Research and Development Centre (ZRDC), has continued to position Zambia within critical global conversations after his recent appearance on Soloviev LIVE Channel, Russia’s 24-hour information and analytical television platform.
During the interview, Dr. Bwalya addressed Africa’s evolving role in an emerging multipolar world, emphasizing the continent’s growing strategic importance in global governance, economic development, and international cooperation. He noted that as global power dynamics shift, African nations—including Zambia—have an opportunity to redefine their development trajectories through diversified partnerships that prioritize sovereignty, sustainability, and mutual benefit.
A key focus of the discussion was the potential for strengthened collaboration between Zambia and Russia. Dr. Bwalya highlighted areas of shared interest such as technology transfer, infrastructure development, energy cooperation, and capacity building. He stressed that such partnerships, if effectively structured, could unlock new opportunities for economic growth while reducing overreliance on traditional global alliances.
Beyond geopolitics, the conversation also explored the expanding cooperation in education and research. Drawing from his academic and professional experience in Moscow, Dr. Bwalya reflected on Russia’s strong educational framework, which continues to attract international students and researchers. He pointed to the country’s significant investment in scientific research and innovation as a model that Zambia could learn from, particularly in strengthening its own research institutions and knowledge production systems.
Dr. Bwalya further underscored the importance of knowledge exchange and academic collaboration in driving sustainable development. He noted that partnerships between Zambian and Russian institutions could enhance skills development, foster innovation, and contribute to solving local and global challenges.
As global partnerships continue to evolve, platforms such as Mama Africa are playing an increasingly important role in facilitating dialogue that bridges research, policy, and international engagement. By providing space for thought leaders and experts to share perspectives, such platforms contribute to shaping informed, forward-looking development strategies for Africa.