“If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (150 words) [2021]
In the past few decades, Asia experienced significant growth driven by countries such as China, Vietnam, and India. However, this growth has slowed in recent years and Africa has emerged as a new center of growth. India has sought to increase its engagement with the continent in a number of ways.
- India has made significant economic investments in Africa, including through its duty-free tariff preferential scheme for Least Developed Nations, and has also increased trade ties with African countries.
- India has provided development assistance and diplomatic outreach to Africa, including through the opening of new embassies and the provision of grants in aid and technical assistance.
- India has also invested in capacity building in Africa, providing over $1 billion in technical assistance and training to personnel through its Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program.
- India has cooperated with African countries on a range of issues, including solar energy development, information technology, cybersecurity, maritime security, disaster relief, counter-terrorism, and military training.
- In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, India has also shared COVID-19 management strategies and trained African healthcare professionals through its e-ITEC initiative.
