Mr Lavrov is expected to hold talks with President Denis Sasou-Nguesso on the effects of the war on food supplies as Africa experiences severe shortages and spiralling cost of living, Journal de Brazza website reported.

Mr Lavrov will later head to Uganda for talks with President Yoweri Museveni.

The Ugandan presidency said in a statement on Sunday that the two leaders would discuss bilateral cooperation. Uganda also reiterated praise for historic relations between the Soviet Union and Africa.

The Russian envoy will later visit Ethiopia ahead of plans to host the second Russia-Africa summit in Addis Ababa, tentatively between October and November.

Russia has ramped up its media activities in Africa to sway opinion over its invasion of Ukraine.

Under pressure from Western sanctions and critical coverage, Russia has gone into diplomatic overdrive in Africa.