ABSTRACT
The Soviet role in Africa at the end of World War II was negligible; so it is certainly not surprising that it has grown subsequently. The Soviet Union has many attributes that enhance its image among African states. It is perceived as a valuable source of arms, economic assistance, and student scholarships, and it provides a relevant developmental model based on elite-fostered rapid modernization, socialist economic principles, and centralized one-party rule. The Communist International, founded in 1919 as an organization dedicated to the goals of Soviet foreign policy and the furtherance of socialist revolutions, established an affiliate in 1930 known as the Negro International. Cuba became art important arm of Soviet strategic policy in Africa. After the Cuban missile crisis of 1962, the fear of a US invasion was considerably alleviated, and cabinet ministries began to replace the armed forces in most aspects of economic administration.
