By Boris Esono Nwenfor
The relationship between India and Africa was at the centre of discussions at the Africa India Global Dialogue, where Dr Denis Foretia, Executive Chairman of the Nkafu Policy Institute, delivered a keynote address on “India-Africa Relations: Strengthening Strategic Cooperation.”
Dr Denis Foretia, who is also Co-Chair of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation, emphasized the deep-rooted connection between India and Africa, exploring the challenges and strategic opportunities for fostering greater collaboration. Recognizing the centuries-old ties built on trade, migration, and cultural exchange, he highlighted India’s historical presence in East Africa and the shared struggles for independence during British colonial rule.
“The relationship between India and Africa is one of history, mutual respect, and shared aspirations. It is a partnership built on the values of solidarity, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange,” Dr Denis Foretia said.
“Today, as we navigate an evolving global landscape, strengthening strategic cooperation between India and Africa is not just a diplomatic necessity—it is an opportunity to unlock immense potential for both regions.”
One of the most important figures linking India and Africa, Mahatma Gandhi, inspired African leaders like Nelson Mandela and Julius Nyerere through his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. Post-independence, India actively supported African decolonization efforts and played a key role in advocating for African nations at international forums such as the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
India-Africa Forum Summits
Recognizing the need for structured diplomatic and economic engagement, India launched the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in 2008. Dr Denis Foretia explained that the IAFS was designed to create a high-level platform for long-term cooperation based on mutual respect and demand-driven partnerships. Since its inception, three summits have been held in 2008, 2011, and 2015, with the last summit marking a milestone as all 54 African nations were invited, eliminating earlier limitations imposed by the Banjul Formula.
“The primary goal was to move beyond transactional relationships and establish a mutually beneficial development partnership based on Africa’s needs and India’s strengths in areas such as trade, investment, healthcare, education, and technology,” Dr Foretia added.
The Executive Chairman of the Nkafu Policy Institute identified several critical sectors where India and Africa have made significant progress and where further collaboration could unlock new opportunities.
Economic and Trade Relations
Trade is one of the strongest pillars of India-Africa relations. In 2001, India-Africa trade stood at $3.3 billion; by 2022, it had surged to $98 billion, making India Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner. India imports crude oil, gold, and agricultural commodities from Africa, while Africa benefits from Indian pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and technology products. Indian companies such as Tata Group and Bharti Airtel have established a strong presence, created jobs and driven economic development. India has also extended over $12 billion in Lines of Credit (LoC) to finance African infrastructure projects.
Technology and Innovation
As Africa undergoes rapid digital transformation, India has been a key partner in fostering technological advancements. Initiatives like the e-Vidya Bharati and e-Arogya Bharati (e-VBAB) program have provided thousands of African students and healthcare professionals with access to digital education and telemedicine services. The Pan-African e-Network Project has connected African universities and hospitals with Indian institutions, facilitating knowledge transfer and capacity building.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
India has earned a reputation as the “pharmacy of the world,” providing affordable, high-quality medicines and vaccines to African countries. Indian pharmaceutical companies can expand their footprint in Africa, helping address critical healthcare challenges. Dr Foretia emphasized that medical tourism is another area with great potential, as many African patients seek medical treatment in India due to advanced healthcare facilities and cost-effective services.
“As a surgeon, I know first-hand India’s advances in providing quality, timely and affordable healthcare. My family members have been treated in India,” Dr Foretia said. “The potential for India to support healthcare in Africa extends beyond medical tourism. By collaborating on healthcare infrastructure development, training healthcare professionals, and providing telemedicine services, India can significantly enhance Africa’s healthcare systems for mutual benefit.”
Human Resource Development and Education
Education and skill development are at the heart of India-Africa cooperation. India provides over 50,000 scholarships annually to African students pursuing degrees in medicine, engineering, and business administration. Programs like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) have trained thousands of African professionals in fields such as public administration and renewable energy.
Security and Defense Cooperation
India has deployed over 200,000 peacekeeping troops to African conflict zones since the 1960s, contributing to stability in regions like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, India has partnered with African nations to combat piracy in the Indian Ocean and ensure maritime security. The India-Africa Defense Ministers’ Conclave in 2020 reinforced India’s commitment to supporting African defence infrastructure and counterterrorism initiatives.
Challenges in India-Africa Relations
Despite progress, Dr Foretia acknowledged several challenges hindering deeper India-Africa cooperation: Delayed India-Africa Forum Summits; Bilateral Relations Over Continental Engagement; Negative Public Perceptions and Ease of Doing Business – Indian businesses hesitate to invest due to regulatory uncertainties and lack of reliable local partners.
To overcome these challenges and strengthen India-Africa ties, Dr Foretia outlined four priority areas such Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals – Establishing joint hospitals and expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing in Africa. Establishing an Information Technology and Digital Innovation – Leveraging India’s expertise to support Africa’s digital transformation.
There is also a need for Agriculture and Food Processing – Transferring agricultural technology and investing in value-added food processing and Trade Enhancement through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) – Strengthening economic integration and creating regional value chains.
Critical Role of Think Tanks in Shaping Policy
Dr Foretia highlighted the importance of think tanks in shaping India-Africa cooperation. Institutions like the Nkafu Policy Institute and their Indian counterparts play a crucial role in providing research-driven policy recommendations, facilitating dialogue, and strengthening diplomatic ties.
“African and Indian think tanks must work together to conduct joint research on areas of mutual interest. By pooling our expertise and resources, we can produce comprehensive studies that offer actionable solutions to the challenges faced by both regions. As you know, our work is critical in facilitating Track 1.5 and Track 2 diplomacy. So, it is an important component that should be leveraged,” Dr Foretia said.
With a powerful reminder from Nelson Mandela: “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it,” the co-chair of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation, Dr Denis Foretia highlighted that the future of India-Africa relations depends on collective action from governments, businesses, and civil society. By strengthening strategic cooperation, India and Africa can build a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future together.
*Culled from February Issue of PAV Magazine
