Russia has formally requested the Central African Republic (CAR) to replace the private Wagner Group with its state-run Africa Corps for continued security support, according to government officials.
Moscow is also demanding payment for future military services, a shift from the previous mineral-for-support arrangement that characterized its dealings with Wagner.
However, CAR’s Government has been hesitant to accept the new terms, citing Wagner’s proven effectiveness in stabilising the regime of President Faustin Archange Touadéra, and aiding in the 2023 Constitutional referendum that potentially extends his hold on power indefinitely.
The push to transition from Wagner to Africa Corps follows the 2023 death of Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and reflects Russia’s broader efforts to consolidate its military presence in Africa under direct State control.
Similar transitions have already taken place in Mali. A senior CAR military official revealed that the Russian deputy Defence minister personally conveyed these demands during multiple visits earlier this year. Nonetheless, CAR’s preference for in-kind payments through mineral concessions, and its deep ties with Wagner operatives, have complicated the negotiations.