Every year, New Delhi transforms into a hub of diplomatic and business activity as it welcomes the African delegation for the annual India-Africa Conclave. Now in its 19th year, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, has once again opened its doors to Africa. This year’s conclave, themed “Creating One Future,” seeks to explore new collaborations, advance business opportunities, and strengthen India-Africa relations.
As someone who has been attending this conclave since the start of my career, I have witnessed firsthand the impact it has on fostering ties between India and Africa. The event offers a unique platform for Indian industries to engage with key stakeholders under one roof, focusing on critical areas such as Trade, Investment, Infrastructure, Healthcare, and Technology.
This year, the conclave has attracted over 1,100 international delegates from 65 countries, including 47 African nations. Indian delegates are participating wholeheartedly in this premier event, underscoring its importance in India-Africa relations. Since its inception in 2005, the Conclave has grown into one of the largest gatherings of senior ministers, policymakers, and business leaders from both continents, cutting across various sectors.
Beyond bilateral and trilateral discussions, this year’s Conclave will spotlight key areas of partnership and emerging opportunities in fields like Agriculture, Food Processing, Defence, Digital Partnership, Financial Partnership, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Power and Energy, Quality Ecosystem, and Skill Capacity Development. The event retains its traditional elements, such as business conferences, exhibitions, and B2B meetings, while also introducing new features like product launches to highlight the AAA approach of Indian business towards Africa—Affordable, Adaptable, and Appropriate.
Day 1 of the conclave saw discussions on topics like “Models of Financing in Africa’s Growth Story,” “Empowering Africa with Affordable & Sustainable Mobility Solutions,” “Banking and Financial Services Partnerships for Ease of Doing Business,” and “Building Physical Infrastructure for Socioeconomic Growth in Africa.”
The official inauguration of the Conclave on 21st August will be a significant moment, graced by Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Hon’ble Vice President of India, distinguished African leaders such as H.E. Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga, Vice-President of Zimbabwe, H.E. Mr. Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon, Vice President of Mauritius, H.E. Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President of Liberia, H.E. Mr. Prosper Bazombanza, Vice President of Burundi, and H.E. Mr. Muhammad B.S. Jallow, Vice-President of The Gambia.
As a media professional, the interactions with leaders from Africa and India at this Conclave have been invaluable, offering insights and perspectives that are crucial in my field. With two more days of the event remaining, I am eager to see the collaborations and discussions that will further shape the future of India-Africa relations.
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