Mains Marathon

Start your answer with brief introduction with India-Africa ties and discuss the causes behind this turmoil. Discuss the Repercussions of the African instability on India and strategic approaches that India could employ to overcome those challenges. Conclude suitably.

Answer:

India and Africa relations are the historical, political, economic, and cultural connections between India and the African continent. India and Africa have a long and rich history of trade, cultural exchange, and anti-colonial solidarity. India’s freedom movement became an inspiration for African nationalists in their desire for independence from colonialism. India shares close and friendly relations with many African countries that are built on mutual trust and confidence. Some of the reasons behind instability in Africa are Urbanization and Youth Unemployment, Return of Military Generals, Inter-Tribal Conflicts, Terrorism, Food Inflation, Debt Overhung etc.

Repercussions of the African instability on India:

• Economic Impact: India has significant trade and investment ties with Africa, which are affected by the instability and insecurity in the continent.
  • India-Africa trade reached USD 98 billion in 2022-23 and India is the fifth-largest investor in Africa.
  • India also provides concessional lines of credit to fund development projects in Africa, has extended over USD 12.37 billion in concessional loans.
  • India has completed 197 projects and has provided 42,000 scholarships since 2015.
• Security Impact: India has a strategic interest in maintaining peace and stability in Africa, especially in the Horn of Africa region, which is an essential shipping lane that connects the Indian Ocean to the Suez Canal.
  • India also participates in peacekeeping missions and counter-terrorism efforts in Africa, as well as provides training and capacity-building to African security forces.
  • The turmoil in Africa poses threats to India’s security interests and objectives, as they create breeding grounds for terrorism, piracy, organized crime, and human trafficking.
• Diplomatic Impact: India has a long-standing partnership with Africa, based on mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation. India supports the aspirations of African countries for self-reliance, democracy, and development.
  • India engages with them through various platforms such as the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS), the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and the Commonwealth.
  • The turmoils in Africa undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the African Union (AU) and other regional organizations
    • They also create divisions and tensions among African countries, and invite more intervention from external actors such as China, Russia, France, the UK, and the US.
• Humanitarian Impact: India has a large diaspora in Africa, estimated at about 3 million people, who are mostly engaged in trade, commerce, and professional services.
  • India also provides humanitarian assistance to African countries affected by conflicts, disasters, or epidemics, such as food, medicine, equipment, and personnel.

Some of the strategic approaches that India could employ:

• Diplomatic Presence and Support: India's historical and cultural links can serve as a foundation for building robust political ties with African governments. By utilizing its diplomatic influence and goodwill, India can provide unwavering support to African countries in their pursuit of peace, democracy, and development.
  • Moreover, India can champion the interests of African nations on the global stage, advocating for their voices in forums like the United Nations, the G-20, and the World Trade Organization.
• Economic Partnership and Collaboration: Strengthening economic ties between India and Africa requires a multifaceted approach. India can facilitate increased trade and investment by offering improved market access, preferential tariffs, and high-quality products and services.
  • To further bolster development, India's commitment can be demonstrated through expanded development assistance, including concessional loans, grants, and technical cooperation.
  • By sharing best practices and experiences, particularly in areas such as agriculture, microfinance, digital economy, and small and medium enterprises, India can contribute to Africa's economic growth and sustainability.
• Regional Integration and Cooperation: Supporting regional integration is crucial for Africa's collective progress. India can play a pivotal role by endorsing initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), promoted by the African Union.
  • By nurturing regional cooperation, India can aid African countries in harnessing their collective strength and resources for sustainable development and stability.
• Security Collaboration and Capacity Building: Collaboration in security matters can bolster stability and counter shared threats. India's expertise in counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and maritime security can be invaluable for African nations.
  • Through increased training, intelligence sharing, and equipment provision, India can enhance the capabilities of African security forces.
  • By contributing more resources and personnel to peacekeeping missions, India can contribute to the maintenance of peace and security in the region.
• Science, Technology, and Innovation Exchange: Fostering collaboration in science, technology, and innovation is essential for addressing shared challenges and unlocking opportunities. India can support research and development projects in Africa, promoting technological advancements that cater to the continent's unique needs.
  • Facilitating technology transfer and adaptation, while encouraging innovation exchange, can drive progress in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and sustainable energy solutions.

By adopting these strategic approaches, India could not only protect its interests but also contribute to the stability and prosperity of Africa. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the third India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015: "Africa will be at the top of our priorities. We will continue to intensify and deepen our engagement with Africa."