Chapter One: Introduction

1.1. Background to Study

Smeagol (2023) defines war as an intense armed conflict involving states, governments, societies, or paramilitary groups like mercenaries, insurgents, and militias. Wars are characterized by extreme violence, destruction, and mortality, conducted by regular or irregular military forces. Some researchers view war as a universal human trait, while others argue it is influenced by socio-cultural, economic, or ecological factors (2023). Sharma (2020:1) presents Starke’s perspective that war is a contest between states, aiming to defeat opponents and dictate peace conditions. Grotius introduced the concept of a “just war,” setting limitations on states’ war capabilities, emphasizing the use of force only when others’ rights are not violated, distinguishing between just and unjust wars (Sharma 2020:9). Africa is the second-largest continent, inhabited by 1.4 billion people, facing economic challenges despite abundant natural resources. This is attributed to factors such as geography, tribalism, colonialism, neocolonialism, and lack of democracy. Africa remains an essential economic market in the global context, surrounded by seas and comprising 54 recognized sovereign states, eight territories, and two de facto independent states (Salih 2023). The armed conflict in eastern Ukraine began in 2014 after Russia’s annexation of Crimea. The conflict escalated into pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk holding referendums for independence. Armed conflict ensued between Russian-backed forces and the Ukrainian military, despite Russia denying military involvement. Efforts for diplomatic solutions and resolutions through various agreements have faced challenges, and the conflict has persisted (Global Conflict Tracker, 2022).

1.2. Statement of Problem

The war between Russia and Ukraine has impacted African countries by disrupting the global supply chains, causing increased fuel and food prices, inflation, and financial instability. This has particularly affected vulnerable populations in Africa.

Critical Research Questions:

• What are the effects of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict on African economies?
• To what extent has this conflict hindered the development of African nations?
• What specific economic challenges have African countries faced during the Russian-Ukrainian conflict?

1.3. Objectives of Study

1.3.1. Main Objective

To examine the impact of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict on African economies.

1.3.2. Specific Objectives

• To evaluate the effects of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict on African countries.
• To assess the extent of the conflict’s hindrance to the development of African nations.
• To analyze the financial challenges experienced by African countries during international conflicts.

1.4. Research Hypothesis

• There’s a rise in fuel prices in African countries due to the conflict.
• War obstructs the import and export of goods in affected regions.
• Seeking solutions to address the scarcity of certain products in African countries, such as fuel.

1.5. Literature Review

• War is defined by Miata (2021) as a complex interaction of state affairs where strategy is defined as the use of engagement to achieve war objectives, emphasizing the connection between war and politics.
• Golden (2023) details Russia’s historical evolution from the East Slavs to the Russian Federation, highlighting its significant achievements and challenges, including conflicts and geopolitical influences.