The BRICS+ alliance has become a crucial forum for promoting South-South cooperation in the changing dynamics of world power. With an emphasis on sustainable development and fair global governance, BRICS has given India a tactical way to strengthen its political and economic ties with Africa. With a focus on real-world case studies, business alliances, and strategic partnerships that have influenced the nature of this relationship. This article explores how India has used BRICS diplomacy to strengthen its South-South ties with Africa.
India’s Strategic Intentions in Africa
A combination of diplomatic, geopolitical, and economic goals drive India’s interactions with Africa. India, the most populous country in the world with a rapidly expanding economy, views Africa as a potential market for its goods and services as well as a source of vital raw materials. In addition, India’s ambitions to become a major world force include forging partnerships in the Global South in order to offset China’s stronghold on the continent.
With the establishment of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in 2008, India formally committed to African development; through BRICS, India has increased its involvement by using collective frameworks to tackle issues like infrastructure investment, development finance, and sustainable growth.
Economic Engagement through BRICS Mechanisms
The New Development Bank’s (NDB) operations are the clearest example of India’s economic cooperation with Africa under the BRICS. The NDB has approved projects totaling several billion dollars in African member states as of 2025, with an emphasis on urban development, energy, and infrastructure. India’s financial and technological contributions to these initiatives demonstrate its dedication to promoting sustainable development on the continent.
The funding of renewable energy projects in South Africa and Mozambique, where Indian technology companies have partnered with local businesses to develop wind and solar farms, is one noteworthy example. These projects complement India’s own goals for renewable energy as well as the BRICS’ sustainable development plan.
Geopolitical and Strategic dimensions
Additionally, India has pushed for reforms that give developing countries a stronger voice and backed African representation in international multilateral institutions. In addition to enhancing India’s soft power, this position appeals to African nations that want more just global governance.
Cultural and People to People Connectivity
One of the most important pillars of India’s BRICS outreach to Africa is still cultural diplomacy. Communities of Indians living abroad in Africa are essential to the development of social and economic links. Furthermore, India is bridging gaps in human capital development through its educational initiatives under the BRICS framework, including capacity-building projects and scholarship programs.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite significant advancements, difficulties still exist. The full potential of India-Africa collaboration is hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies, competition from China’s established economic presence, and sporadic political instability in African states. A comprehensive approach that gives local collaborations and community-driven initiatives top priority is needed to address these issues.
India needs to strengthen its strategic presence in Africa and keep pushing for a multipolar, balanced world order as BRICS develops. India can strengthen its standing as Africa’s top partner in the South-South cooperation paradigm by fusing cultural diplomacy with economic pragmatism.
India’s economic and strategic outreach to Africa is a prime example of its dedication to promoting durable partnerships and inclusive prosperity within the framework of BRICS diplomacy. India can continue to fortify South-South ties and promote a more diverse and equitable global order by negotiating the difficulties posed by great power competition and regional instability.
