Inspired by India’s self-sufficiency in foodgrain production, Africa has now set a target of cutting down its $35-billion food import bill.

Speaking at the opening of the 52nd annual meeting of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the President of the bank, Akinwumi Adesina, said India has shown the world a roadmap to become self sufficient in foodgrain production within a short span of three years.

“We are here to draw inspiration from India’s Green Revolution,” said Adesina, adding that Africa spends about $35 billion on food imports, which may rise to $110 billion by 2025.

“In 10 years, Africa has to feed itself and become net exporter of food,” he added.

Highlighting the cooperation between India and Africa, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said it is not a one-off event but part of a strategic policy over the last several years.

“India and Africa together can shape the future of the world. The present government has provided fresh impetus to these efforts. India’s share of announced greenfield projects grew from 3.3 per cent in 2003-08 to 6.1 per cent in 2009-15. India is among the most important emerging investors in Africa. In terms of greenfield projects, India was the fourth largest investor with 45 projects in 2015 after the US, the UK, and the UAE,” said Jaitley during his address at Mahatma Mandir here on Monday.

He also reiterated India’s commitment to support Africa in achieving its development agenda.

The five-day summit will have its formal inauguration on Tuesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is also on two-day tour to Gujarat.

The meeting is aimed at boosting India-Africa bilateral trade further as well as India’s co-operation with AfDB in areas like solar power, food and agriculture and infrastructure such as railways, said Adesina.

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