Context: 

India and USA recently held the Second Dialogue on Africa in Washington D.C. 

Key Highlights:

• The Ministry of External Affairs announced the beginning of the second phase of the India-USA Dialogue on Africa, underscoring a joint commitment to enhance relationships and collaborate on developmental efforts throughout Africa.
• Both Indian and USA delegations actively participated in the dialogue, demonstrating high-level Participation and leadership.
• Objectives and Focus: The primary goal of the dialogue is to promote the exchange of ideas and perspectives.
• It emphasizes the development of institutional, technical, and bilateral synergies for effective collaboration on developmental projects and programs in Africa.
• Alignment with African Priorities: By leveraging the strengths of India and the United States, the dialogue seeks to identify key areas of cooperation that align with African priorities, aiming to enhance developmental initiatives on the continent.

Partnership in Development Projects: 

• India and the USA have collaborated on various development projects in Africa, focusing on education, energy, agriculture, and health.
• Notable among these is the Feed the Future India Africa Innovation Transfer Platform. It aimed at sharing Indian agricultural techniques in Kenya and Malawi to enhance local crop production and water management.
• Collaborative healthcare initiatives to address infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS  or strengthen local healthcare systems.
• Digital infrastructure projects to develop communication networks or telemedicine infrastructure.

Importance of the Dialogue

• To counter Chinese influence: China is expanding influence in Africa through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and significant investments.
• To address issues regarding Security Concerns: Ongoing conflicts and political instability in some African regions threaten the safety of Indian investments, expatriates, and development projects, necessitating collaborative security efforts.

India's Efforts to Engage Africa

• Asia-Africa Growth Corridor: In partnership with Japan, India launched this initiative to enhance cooperation with African nations.
• Kampala Principles (2018): The Indian Prime Minister established ten guiding principles for the India-Africa partnership, emphasizing mutual development and fostering local partnerships.
• Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC): Through the ITEC program, India provides capacity-building opportunities for professionals and students from African countries
• International Solar Alliance: India's engagement also extends to the International Solar Alliance, which offers African nations access to clean and affordable energy solutions. 
• permanent member of the G20: The recent inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during India's presidency further strengthens the foundation for deepened India-Africa cooperation.