Deputy Trade Minister calls for stronger India-Africa partnership to drive growth, sustainability

The Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr. Sampson Ahi, has called for deeper collaboration between India and Africa to drive prosperity, sustainability, and inclusive growth.

Speaking on behalf of the sector minister at the 20th India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi, Mr. Ahi stressed that the partnership between India and Africa must move beyond traditional donor-beneficiary relations and be anchored in co-investment, co-innovation, and co-creation.

He noted that with both regions home to some of the world’s youngest populations and fastest-growing economies, they share similar challenges such as rapid urbanisation, job creation, infrastructure development, and climate change.

These shared realities, he added, present fertile ground for collaboration, particularly in the transformative sectors of mobility and energy.

Mr. Ahi outlined a model that leverages India’s expertise in software, battery management, and small EV platforms alongside Africa’s vast mineral resources to build local electric vehicle ecosystems.

He also highlighted the potential of biofuels, urging collaboration to replicate India’s ethanol production model using agricultural waste.

“This approach would increase farmer incomes, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and significantly cut carbon emissions, delivering economic, agricultural, and environmental benefits,” he said.

The Deputy Minister urged participants to move beyond discussions and forge practical alliances that will accelerate development on both sides.