Deputy Trade Minister Advocates for Stronger Ties between India and Africa

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

Delivering an address on behalf of the Sector Minister, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, at the 20th India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi, on the theme “Co-Creating a Shared Future,” Hon. Ahi stressed that the partnership between India and Africa must go beyond traditional donor-beneficiary relations to one 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 face similar challenges, including rapid urbanization, job creation, infrastructure development, and climate change. According to him, these shared realities present fertile ground for collaboration, particularly in the transformative sectors of mobility and energy.

Outlining four pillars of this renewed partnership, the Deputy Minister highlighted:

1. Collaborative Models for EV Manufacturing:
He proposed a model that combines India’s expertise in software, battery management, and small EV platforms with Africa’s vast mineral resources to build local electric vehicle ecosystems. This, he explained, would not only reduce reliance on imports but also create jobs, technical training centers, and ancillary industries across the continent.

2. Affordable Transport Innovations:
Drawing on India’s successful low-cost transport solutions, Hon. Ahi suggested adapting ultra-affordable vehicles, such as next-generation electric three-wheelers, to meet Africa’s unique needs. He emphasized that such vehicles could ease congestion, withstand rugged terrains, carry heavy loads, and serve as mobile marketplaces for communities.

3. Sustainable Fuel Adoption:
He underscored the potential of biofuels, encouraging collaboration between India and Africa to replicate India’s ethanol production model from agricultural waste. This approach, he said, would increase farmer incomes, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and drastically cut carbon emissions, delivering economic, agricultural, and environmental benefits.

Hon. Ahi concluded by urging participants to move beyond discussions and build practical alliances that will accelerate development on both sides.

The Deputy Minister on the sidelines of the event visited some exhibition stands.