But far fewer of them are taking part than expected, partly because of concerns about Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and its decision to withdraw from a UN-brokered deal to allow safe passage for grain shipments from Ukraine's southern ports.

With food security a major concern in the wake of the Russian invasion, the agreement had helped stabilise global food prices.

The first Russia-Africa summit in 2019 was attended by 43 leaders, this time only 17 are expected to take part.