The linkages between India and Africa date back to ancient times and are deeply connected to early civilizations. Both Africa and India shared many similarities long before colonial powers reached Asian and African countries. These relationships are complex, long-standing, and constantly evolving.
The Indian diaspora in Africa is at the centre of this enduring collaboration, playing a prominent role in shaping the historical, political, economic, and cultural relations between India and the African continent. From early traders and indentured labourers to modern entrepreneurs and policymakers, the Indian diaspora has significantly influenced the trajectory of India–Africa ties over the past 150 years.
The number of Indians residing overseas has grown substantially, especially during the era of globalization. Among Africa’s 54 nations, Indians have been living for decades in 46 of them. “12.37% of all Indians who have migrated outside of India over time are in Africa. The number of Indians residing in various regions of the continent varies substantially. For instance, the Indian diaspora accounts for 70% of the population of Mauritius. Over 800,000 Indians reside in Nigeria and run roughly 100,000 enterprises there” (Badetia, 2016: 357).
The Indian diaspora has been a key driver of investment in Africa, recognising the continent as one of the best locations for business and growth. Indians have had a significant and diverse economic impact on Africa’s economy. Over the decades, many transitioned from retailers, dealers, and manufacturers to industrialists and bankers after completing contracts as indentured labourers.
The Indian community has dominated multiple sectors over the years, including manufacturing, retail, textiles, the food industry, healthcare, and particularly the service sector, where Indian doctors and teachers serve in large numbers. Leading companies founded or started by the Indian diaspora include the East African Nakumatt grocery chain and major conglomerates in Mauritius and South Africa. Indian businesses such as Bharti Airtel, Tata, Hero MotoCorp, and Godrej now operate across several African countries, supporting local employment and skill development (Jaldi, 2021: Online).
The Indian diaspora has invested in retail, healthcare, education, financial services, infrastructure, and even the defence sector, promoting trade and economic exchanges between India and African nations. “India is Africa’s third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade recently reaching $98 billion. This serves as a notable example of the diaspora’s significance as the primary component of an economic channel” (Badetia, 2016: 358).
Bilateral ties between Africa and India also include cooperation in crucial sectors such as minerals, energy security, and pharmaceuticals. Africa is rich in natural resources and minerals that are essential to India’s technology and renewable energy sectors. Countries such as Namibia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa have attracted significant trade and investment from Indian companies and the Indian government.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a well-known, government-led initiative that has brought together many African nations and India to expand solar energy capacity and sustainable energy infrastructure in both regions. In Zambia’s copper mining industry, Indian-origin companies contribute significantly by collaborating with African companies to support local employment, share technology, and boost the economy through capacity-building programmes. Kenya, India’s third-largest trading partner in Africa, recorded bilateral trade worth $3.39 billion in 2023, with more than 200 Indian companies active in manufacturing, banking, telecommunications, education, and healthcare (NRI FinOne, 2024: Online).
Political and Social Influence
The Indian diaspora in Africa is not only engaged in economic activities but also plays a role in the political and social spheres. In nations such as South Africa, Mauritius, Kenya, and Tanzania (Zanzibar), members of the Indian diaspora have risen to prominence in both local and national politics.
In Mauritius, where people of Indian origin make up more than 70% of the population (High Commission of India, Mauritius, 2025: Online), the diaspora has been a decisive force in shaping political dynamics. Prominent leaders such as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam—regarded as the country’s founding father—guided Mauritius to independence and advanced social welfare, healthcare, and universal education. Ramgoolam served as the first prime minister and later as governor-general. Another notable figure, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, held the roles of both president and prime minister for decades, strengthening Indo-Mauritian influence in politics while promoting economic and democratic reforms.
In South Africa, the Indian diaspora—accounting for about 3% of the population—has played a significant role in both the struggle against apartheid and post-independence governance. Nelson Mandela himself was inspired by Indian freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. Figures like Ahmed Kathrada, a close friend of Mandela, were instrumental in shaping South African policies after apartheid (Pal, 2017: Online). Pravin Gordhan, a former United Democratic Front activist, later became a leading architect of post-apartheid policies, serving as Minister of Finance and Minister of Public Enterprises.
The diaspora’s influence extends beyond politics into community life. In Mauritius, Indo-Mauritians have preserved temples, mosques, and community halls as hubs of civic engagement, reflecting how Indo-African institutions foster social harmony and cultural diversity.
Diplomatic Role
On the diplomatic level, the Indian diaspora promotes goodwill between India and African nations, strengthening ties between the two regions. Professionals of Indian origin frequently serve as envoys, consuls, or corporate ambassadors, leveraging their dual cultural identities to facilitate trade, mediate bilateral relations, and resolve diplomatic misunderstandings. Their presence acts as a bridge between the goals and interests of the two continents, enhancing India’s soft power in Africa.
Conclusion
From its early roots in slavery and indentured labour—marked by hardship and exclusion—the Indian diaspora in Africa has emerged as a symbol of resilience, strength, and success. Today, it is a key player in shaping Africa’s future. Its contributions across multiple sectors are not only strategically important but also vital in enhancing bilateral relationships and strengthening people-to-people connections between Africa and India.
References
Badetia. V.K., (2016).The India Diaspora is Critical to India’s Connections with Africa.International Journal of Advanced Research in ISSN: 2278-6236 Management and Social Sciences.ISSN: 2278-6236. Volume 5, Issue No. 4.
Encyclopedia.(2025).https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/ramgoolam-seewoosagur.
High Commission of India in Mauritius., (2025).https://hcimauritius.gov.in/pages?id=9avme&subid=yb8md&nextid=RdG7d#:~:text=Mauritius%20Overview&text=A%20key% 20reason%20for%20the,1%25%20Franco%2DMauritian.
Jaldi.A., (2021). https://www.policycenter.ma/opinion/indian-diaspora-africa-instrument-new-delhi-soft-power-continent
NRI FinOne, (2024). https://nrifinone.com/india-and-africa-exploring-economic-cultural-and-business-ties-for-the-nri-community/
Pal.S,. (2017). https://thebetterindia.com/93751/ahmed-kathrada-indian-origin-anti-apartheid-icon-south-africa/
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