African Pulse
This monthly presents studies on strategic and economic security developments in Africa, which hold particular relevance for India. This month’s edition is focused on Africa’s broad security landscape and outlines the way forward for India-Africa cooperation in the areas of defence and security.
Africa is undergoing a strategic reawakening. Guided by frameworks like Agenda 2063 and AfCFTA, and bolstered by a G20 seat and a coordinated A3 voice at the UN, the continent is asserting its agency - not only in socio-economic development, but also in shaping its own security future.
Recent gatherings of African Chiefs of Defence reflect this pivot. The call for “African Solutions to African Problems” is evolving from principle to practice, with a focus on building continental defence cooperation to tackle transnational threats through homegrown responses and stronger institutions.
India, a long-standing partner of Africa and voice of the Global South, is steadily expanding its role. From peacekeeping and defence training, it has moved into more ambitious terrain - trilateral maritime exercises, multilateral defence engagements like AFINDEX and AIKEYME, and co-hosting forums such as DEFEXPO 2020.
Strategic frameworks like SAGAR and MAHASAGAR reflect India’s vision of the Indian Ocean as a shared security space. Morocco’s hosting of India’s first overseas defence manufacturing facility marks a turning point towards a co-production partnership.
Yet, Africa’s security landscape remains crowded and complex. Multiple external actors - China, Russia, the EU, Turkey - compete for influence. India must navigate this space with mutual respect and in alignment with Africa’s needs, offering partnership without prescription, and support without strings.
India’s advantage lies in lived experience. India’s journey through counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, institutional reform, and digital governance offers tools that can resonate with Africa’s requirements. From harnessing digital public infrastructure for security needs to defence capacity-building, India’s model is relevant, if not replicable.
To be credible in Africa’s defence and security transformation, India must embed itself in systemic support, and not just defence exports. If pursued with sensitivity and shared purpose, this partnership can help build an African security architecture anchored in agency, while elevating India’s role as a trusted partner in a multipolar world.
To read this African Pulse, Vol. I, Issue 4, please see the PDF attached.
