Russian language pilot launched in Central African Republic schools amid Wagner presence
Russia and the Central African Republic have begun a pilot program to teach Russian in three public schools, supplying textbooks and planning a university department.
A resolution signed by Russia and the Central African Republic will introduce Russian language instruction in three public schools, targeting students from sixth grade onward. The Russian Education Ministry has provided 500 textbooks and aims to establish a Russian-language department at the University of Bangui. Since 2024, instructors from the Russian House in Bangui have been teaching Russian at private institutions, and the curriculum was added to public schools on October 1.
Wagner mercenaries have operated in the CAR since 2017; after the 2023 mutiny and the death of founder Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Russian Defense Ministry took control, and an estimated 1,500 remain as of early 2026. Russia backs President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who amended the constitution and won a third term in 2025. In the September 2026 State Duma elections, United Russia received 79% of the CAR vote, the highest share among overseas polling stations, with 210 voters casting ballots.
Why it matters
The program expands Russian influence in Central Africa while Wagner forces continue operating there.
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