GABORONE – India has announced preparations for the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV), describing it as a pivotal moment in strengthening South–South cooperation and deepening ties with African nations, including Botswana.

Speaking at India House in Gaborone on Thursday May 7th, Bharath Kumar Kuthati, High Commissioner of India to Botswana and Special Representative to the SADC, said the summit comes at a time of global uncertainty marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, inflation, and energy volatility.

He stressed that trusted partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared priorities are vital for developing countries.

Kuthati underscored the historic foundations of India–Africa relations, recalling solidarity during struggles against colonialism and apartheid.

He noted that the partnership has since expanded into trade, healthcare, education, digital transformation, renewable energy, climate action, and defence cooperation.

The summit, themed “India–Africa Strategic Partnership for Innovation, Resilience and Inclusive Transformation”, will focus on co-developing digital solutions, building resilient healthcare and supply chains, and promoting inclusive growth through youth empowerment, women-led development, and skills training.

Botswana was singled out as a key partner in India’s Africa engagement. Kumar highlighted cooperation in pharmaceuticals, scholarships, IT, mining, and skills development, while pointing to untapped potential in renewable energy, agriculture, startups, and emerging technologies.

He said Botswana’s Vision 2036 aligns closely with India’s developmental experiences, creating opportunities for deeper collaboration.

The High Commissioner emphasised that India’s approach is consultative and demand-driven, respecting African priorities and sovereignty.

He added that the summit reflects convergence between Africa’s Agenda 2063 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, both centred on inclusive growth, sustainability, and innovation.

“IAFS-IV is more than a diplomatic summit,” Kumar said. “It is a reaffirmation of a partnership built on shared history, shared aspirations, and shared responsibility for the future.”

(C) TPA2026