EAM Dr S. Jaishankar says India supports inclusive, demand-driven development in Africa

India's engagement with Africa has evolved from historical solidarity during decolonization to a comprehensive strategic partnership anchored in mutual respect and shared development aspirations. The recent remarks by External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar at the Africa Day celebration in New Delhi on May 25, 2024, underscore this trajectory. Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963 — now the African Union (AU) — symbolizing continental unity. India's participation reflects its deepening diplomatic footprint across the Global South. Dr Jaishankar's emphasis on "inclusive, demand-driven development cooperation" marks a deliberate departure from traditional donor-recipient models. This approach aligns with the principles of South-South Cooperation enshrined in the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (1978) and reaffirmed in the Nairobi Outcome Document (2009). India's development partnership with Africa operates without conditionalities, focusing on capacity building, Lines of Credit (LoCs), grant assistance, and technical cooperation — all tailored to African national priorities. As of 2023, India has extended over $12 billion in LoCs to African nations, funding projects in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and digital connectivity. Economically, India-Africa trade reached approximately $98 billion in 2022-23, making India one of the continent's top trading partners. Indian investments in Africa exceed $70 billion, spanning pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, automotive, and renewable energy. The Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), extended to 33 African nations, enhances market access. Furthermore, the Pan-African e-Network Project (launched 2009) and its successor, the e-VidyaBharati and e-ArogyaBharati (e-VBAB) network, exemplify India's digital diplomacy in education and healthcare. Strategically, India supports Africa's voice in global governance — advocating for AU's permanent membership in G20 (achieved in 2023 under India's presidency) and UN Security Council reform. The India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS), held triennially since 2008, institutionalizes this dialogue. The 4th IAFS is expected soon, building on the 2015 Delhi Declaration and the 10-year roadmap. Constitutionally, Article 51 of the Indian Constitution directs the State to "promote international peace and security" and "foster respect for international law" — principles guiding India's Africa policy. The Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) 'Focus Africa' programme (launched 2002) and the subsequent 'Action Plan for Africa' operationalize this vision. Looking ahead, India-Africa ties will likely deepen in critical minerals (cobalt, lithium for green transition), maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and climate resilience. The International Solar Alliance (ISA), co-founded by India and France, includes 31 African signatories. As Africa advances the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), India's role as a development partner — not a predator — positions it uniquely. For aspirants, this narrative connects IR, economy, governance, and sustainable development — a quintessential UPSC theme.