Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Ghana aimed to strengthen India’s relationship with African nations. Ghana holds a significant place in India’s trade relations in West Africa and is a partner in military training. Indian naval forces engage in joint exercises with Ghana, and there’s interest in Indian-made military supplies.
On his tour, Modi also stopped in Namibia, where the Indian military has been active since 1996, offering training and support. Notably, during India’s G20 presidency in 2023, the African Union was granted entry, showcasing India’s commitment to African representation on global platforms.
India and China vie to be seen as leaders of the Global South, encompassing African nations. Many African countries, like Mali and Niger, have recently called for foreign military withdrawals, primarily targeting Western forces. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, India seeks to provide security partnerships without establishing bases. This positions India as a preferred ally.
India has a long history of peacekeeping in Africa, dating back to the early 1960s in places like Congo. Currently, approximately 4,500 Indian military personnel are deployed in various peacekeeping missions across the continent. The respect for India’s role in peacekeeping is evident in nations where it has operated.
In contrast, China’s peacekeeping reputation faced scrutiny after its troops in South Sudan were criticized for failing to protect aid workers during attacks. This incident highlighted India’s established credibility.
Furthermore, India trains around 450 military personnel from Africa annually in its military academies. Initiatives like the India-Africa Defence Dialogue and joint military exercises enhance cooperation. In 2023, 25 African nations participated in a military exercise with India—an increase from 17 countries in 2019—demonstrating growing recognition of India as a defense partner.
The Indian Navy is also active in the Western Indian Ocean, conducting training exercises and humanitarian missions. This engagement solidifies India’s role as a security provider in the region. India’s Operation Sankalp has successfully rescued lives and escorted vital goods, reflecting its commitment to regional security.
While India faces competition from China, which has built a base in Djibouti and aims for another in Mozambique, India’s soft power remains a strong advantage. Unlike China’s approach, India focuses on building trust and maintaining long-term relationships through military training and cooperation.
An important aspect of India-Africa relations is the supply of defense products. Indian military equipment is seen as reliable, cost-effective, and backed by solid after-sales service. This offers a competitive edge against products from China and the West.
Increased engagement with Africa brings multiple benefits for India. It offers the chance to assist its diaspora, secure critical resources, and bolster military diplomacy in a region often led by military-backed governments.
In conclusion, India’s approach to Africa is multifaceted and aims at strengthening ties while addressing emerging challenges. As relationships evolve, India is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of Africa’s defense landscape.
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This analysis is framed for clarity and engages readers by emphasizing key points while eliminating unnecessary complexity.
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PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI, GHANA, AFRICAN UNION, GLOBAL SOUTH, INDIA AND AFRICA, ANALYSIS | GROWING INDIA-AFRICA MILITARY TIES AND ITS IMPORTANCE
