The African Development Bank Group and India are strengthening cooperation in digital infrastructure, industrial development, and finance ahead of the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit scheduled for 31 May 2026 in New Delhi. This collaboration aligns with the Bank’s strategic priorities to expand access to capital, enhance digital and financial systems, and accelerate industrialisation across Africa.
India, a member of the Bank Group since 1983, has consistently supported its capital increases, helping scale up financing for infrastructure and development projects. The partnership reflects a shared focus on practical, scalable solutions suited to large and diverse populations, reinforcing South-South cooperation and enabling adaptable systems across African countries.
Economic ties between India and Africa have grown significantly, with bilateral trade nearing $100 billion in 2024–25 across sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. Indian companies have also increased their role in Bank-financed projects, securing numerous contracts and contributing to project delivery capacity and private sector participation.
Cooperation is expanding in digital public infrastructure, with India supporting initiatives that promote financial inclusion through digital payments and interoperable systems. These efforts draw on India’s experience in building large-scale digital platforms to help African countries modernise services and broaden access to financial systems.
In parallel, collaboration is advancing in healthcare and industrial development, particularly in strengthening pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity. With Africa facing a significant investment gap in this sector, partnerships aim to support technology transfer, local production, and supply chain resilience, leveraging India’s expertise in pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
As the summit approaches, both sides are working to translate growing trade and investment ties into concrete projects and financing mechanisms. The partnership is expected to further strengthen economic systems, expand opportunities, and deliver measurable development outcomes across the African continent.
