India’s President Droupadi Murmu’s First Visit to Africa: Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi

Indian President Droupadi Murmu embarked on a historic seven-day visit to three African nations—Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi—marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to these countries. Her tour, from October 13 to 19, aims to deepen diplomatic and economic ties, enhance bilateral cooperation, and engage with the Indian diaspora in the region.

President Murmu’s visit underscores India’s growing interest in fostering closer relations with Africa, emphasising mutual development across sectors like agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, and digital innovation. The visit is strategically significant as it seeks to build long-term partnerships with countries that hold immense natural resources and growing economic potential.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations in Algeria

President Murmu’s first stop was Algeria, where she met with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Their discussions focused on enhancing bilateral ties in trade, culture, and economic cooperation. President Murmu also paid tribute to Algeria’s history by visiting significant cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Maqam Echahid monument and the ancient Roman city of Tipasa. During her visit, she addressed the Algeria-India Economic Forum, where both nations explored opportunities to strengthen economic partnerships.

Deepening Cooperation with Mauritania

On October 16, President Murmu arrived in Mauritania, a country that holds the presidency of the African Union, signalling a critical juncture for deepening ties. She was warmly received by Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, and the two leaders signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering cooperation in areas such as foreign policy, cultural exchange, and visa waivers for diplomatic passport holders.

In her address to the Indian community in Nouakchott, President Murmu highlighted the cultural similarities between India and Mauritania, such as shared values of family ties, respect for ancestors, and traditional clothing. She emphasised the potential for India to contribute to Mauritania’s development through human resource development, agriculture, health, and infrastructure.

Boosting Collaboration with Malawi

The final stop on President Murmu’s tour is Malawi, where she will meet with President Lazarus Chakwera and attend a business event focused on enhancing trade and economic cooperation. Three MoUs related to youth affairs, sports, and cultural exchange are expected to be signed, further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Building a Stronger India-Africa Partnership

President Murmu’s visit to these three nations represents a significant step in advancing India’s engagement with Africa. With Africa playing an increasingly pivotal role in global geopolitics and trade, India’s focus on strengthening partnerships with African nations aligns with its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

As President Murmu noted, the Indian diaspora is an essential part of this process, contributing to both nations’ economies and helping build bridges of cooperation. The signed agreements and cultural exchanges highlight a shared vision for mutual growth and development, underscoring the importance of India-Africa relations in shaping a prosperous future.