India’s relationship with Africa dates back more than two millennia. Now an agreements between Nigeria and Indian aims to intensify this cooperation even further.
India-Africa – A long history
Relations between Africa and India have a long and diverse history, dating back to ancient times and characterized by trade, migration, cultural exchange and political interactions.
- Trade relations
Even in ancient times, there were trade routes connecting Africa and India. Indian goods such as spices, textiles and precious stones were exported across the sea to East Africa, while African products such as gold, ivory and slaves reached India.
2 Cultural exchanges
The exchange between the two regions led to a mutual influence in art, religion and language. For example, Indian traders and seafarers left their mark on East Africa, which is reflected in Swahili culture.
3. The colonial period
During the colonial period, relations intensified, particularly as a result of British colonial rule in India and parts of Africa. Indian labourers were often brought to Africa to work on plantations and in the construction of the Mombasa-Nairobi railway line. Most of them remained and engaged in trade and business to form an Indian diaspora in countries such as Kenya, but later also in Uganda and Tanzania.
4. Independence movements
In the 20th century, independence movements played an important role in both regions. India, which became independent in 1947, supported many African countries in their quest for independence, which strengthened political ties.
5. Present relationships
Today, relations between Africa and India are characterized by economic cooperation, investments and technological partnerships. India is an important trading partner for many African countries. There are also numerous initiatives to promote education.
Overall, the history of relations between Africa and India is rich and complex, characterized by a constant exchange and mutual influence that continues to this day.
The Presence of India in Africa
There are no exact statistics on the number of people with Indian background living in African countries.
– In Kenya: there are an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 Indians.
– There is also a significant Indian community in Tanzania, estimated in the tens of thousands.
– The Indian population in Uganda is estimated at around 30,000 to 50,000.
– Several hundred thousand people of Indian descent also live in South Africa, particularly in the province of KwaZulu-Natal.
In all these countries Indian traders play an important role in the local economies. Thanks to their close links with the country of origin they are able to important goods at cheaper prices than western companies. But in recent years African traders have learned to compete with them.
Nigeria and Indien renew Cooperation
During a state visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nigeria and India agreed to cooperate more closely in the areas of maritime security, intelligence and counter-terrorism. In view of the increasing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, the two countries agreed on a coordinated approach to protect maritime trade routes and combat piracy.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is seeking more Indian investment and more favorable credit lines to boost its economy and create jobs.
More than 200 Indian companies are active in Nigeria.
Mutual Interests
The European Union and India have common interests, particularly with regard to sustainable development and the fight against climate change. There are also efforts to deepen economic relations, which are reflected in free trade agreements and strategic partnerships.
“India is taking advantage of its close cultural and historical relationship with the African continent to strengthen its trade relations and geopolitical influence on the continent.”
Teresa Nogueira Pinto
NAD Information
