Russia–Africa Tourism: Kalinka Senegal and Gatingo Received at the State Duma to Strengthen Cooperation

Cooperation between Russia and Africa reached a new milestone this weekend during a high-level meeting dedicated to the development of Russia–Africa tourism. The gathering, held at the State Duma of the Russian Federation, brought together key industry stakeholders, including Kalinka Senegal, represented by its Secretary General Ms. Oumy Sène, alongside Ms. Larissa Kryukova, President of CCR Kalinka Senegal, and the organization Gatingo, represented by its President Ms. Tatiana Tudvaseva. Several Russian political figures, including the influential Nikolai Starikov, also took part in the discussions.

Under the leadership of these officials, the meeting explored opportunities to expand tourism between Russia and the African continent, a sector experiencing growing momentum. Discussions focused on several priority areas: diversifying tourism offerings, promoting cultural and educational travel routes, and strengthening the role of cultural institutions in fostering closer ties between Russia and Africa.

Speaking on behalf of the Russian side, Mr. Nikolai Viklorovich highlighted the strategic importance of educational tourism, which he described as a key lever for deepening Russia–Africa relations and enhancing mutual understanding.

Taking the floor in turn, Ms. Oumy Sène, Secretary General of the Russian Cultural Center Kalinka Senegal, expressed her appreciation for participating in this high-level exchange. She reaffirmed Kalinka Senegal’s commitment to promoting tourism and cultural exchange between Russia and African countries, emphasizing that “culture remains an essential bridge between nations.”

Ms. Sène also stressed the importance of establishing mechanisms to facilitate visa procedures between Russia and African states, as well as establishing framework agreements between Ministries of Tourism. Such tools, she noted, would help develop B2B partnerships and expand cooperation opportunities, particularly with French-speaking African countries.

By opening a structured space for dialogue, this meeting at the State Duma marks a significant step toward strengthened tourism cooperation between Russia and Africa. It underlines a shared willingness to build solid and sustainable partnerships to support a rapidly expanding sector.

Africa Space