History of Gambia-India Relations
Relations between The Gambia and India remained significantly limited until 1985, a period that was largely marked by a shared commitment to non-aligned politics and a unified stance on issues like decolonization and North-South relations. Prior to this point, The Gambia's diplomatic ties were more concentrated with Asian nations such as Taiwan, China, South Korea, and North Korea. These relationships were primarily based on economic aid agreements that complemented political alliances. This strategic maneuvering illustrated The Gambia's focus on regional powers while avoiding deeper engagement with India, despite the latter's rising profile on the global stage.
A pivotal moment in Gambia-India relations came in January 2015 when The Gambia co-sponsored a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly initiated by India to declare June 21 as International Yoga Day. This act not only showcased The Gambia's willingness to forge a stronger connection with India but also indicated a growing acknowledgment of the cultural ties that could exist between the two nations. Following this, in September 2015, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in India, visited The Gambia in his capacity as the Prime Minister's Special Envoy. During this visit, he extended an official invitation for The Gambia to participate in the third India Africa Forum Summit (IAFS).
The participation of Gambian Vice President Isatou Njie-Saidy in the IAFS held in New Delhi from October 26 to 29, 2015, marked a significant development in bilateral relations. Njie-Saidy characterized India as a "genuine friend" and acknowledged its meaningful contributions to sustainable development in both The Gambia and the larger African continent. She celebrated the flourishing partnership built on mutual benefits, suggesting that the two nations shared common interests in international affairs. This was particularly evident at the United Nations, where both countries consistently demonstrated cooperative support on various global issues. Njie-Saidy highlighted the ongoing support from the Indian government, noting that India's proactive involvement in Africa had positively impacted national development and improved the quality of life for many Africans.
Further contributing to the strengthening of bilateral ties, Gambian Minister of Health and Social Welfare Omar Sey visited India in November 2015 to participate in the India-Africa Business Forum. Sey emphasized the significant role played by Indian multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in transforming healthcare accessibility and affordability across Africa, underscoring the tangible benefits of Indian investment in the health sector. His remarks reinforced the notion that India's contributions were not merely superficial but had lasting impacts on the continent's developmental goals. This exchange of visits and dialogues indicates a commitment to deepening relations, building a framework for ongoing cooperation in various sectors, and enhancing the overall partnership between The Gambia and India.
Trade Relations
India holds a significant position in The Gambia's trade landscape, being the third largest trading partner for the country, trailing behind China and Senegal. The relationship is marked by India’s role as the second largest destination for Gambian exports and the fourth largest source of imports. The trade dynamics between both nations took a downward turn in the fiscal year 2015-16, with bilateral trade amounts reaching approximately US$90.90 million, reflecting a decrease of 17.08% compared to the previous year. India's exports to The Gambia totaled around $59.54 million, while the imports from The Gambia were valued at $31.35 million.
The commodities exchanged between the two countries are quite diverse. India primarily exports cotton yarn, fabrics and made-ups, cosmetics, toiletries, drugs and pharmaceuticals, and semi-finished iron and steel products to The Gambia. On the flip side, The Gambia primarily exports raw cashews and cotton to India, emphasizing the agricultural strengths of Gambian exports. This trade not only facilitates economic interactions but also strengthens the bilateral ties between the nations, laying the foundation for future collaboration in diverse sectors.
Efforts to enhance trade relations have been actively pursued through high-level exchanges and forums. In this context, Gambian Minister of Trade and Industry Addoulie Jobe led a three-member delegation to New Delhi to participate in the 4th India-Africa Trade Ministers’ Meeting on October 23, 2015. Such engagements underscore the commitment from both nations to foster stronger commercial ties. Additionally, the Embassy of India in Dakar partnered with The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to organize the India-Gambia Business Forum under the theme "Doing Business with India" on October 14, 2016, in Banjul. This forum aimed to boost bilateral trade and explore new avenues for cooperation.
Furthermore, India extends a significant benefit to The Gambia through its unilateral duty-free tariff preferential (DFTP) market access scheme for the export of select goods. This initiative not only encourages Gambian producers to tap into the Indian market but also facilitates the growth of trade between the two countries. Such measures are crucial for strengthening economic ties and promoting mutual growth, paving the way for a prosperous partnership in the years to come.
Foreign Aid and Collaboration
The collaboration between India and The Gambia is epitomized by several significant foreign aid projects that have made crucial impacts on the country's infrastructure and community development. Notably, the Pan-African e-Network project, implemented by Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (TCIL), has enhanced communication and access to digital resources in The Gambia. Additionally, in September 2007, an Indian non-governmental organization successfully completed a solar electrification project in the rural villages of Kankurang and Kafenkeng, demonstrating India's commitment to renewable energy initiatives in African nations.
India's financial assistance to The Gambia includes two concessionary lines of credit totaling approximately $16.7 million dedicated to infrastructure projects. These funds were allocated for a tractor assembly plant and the construction of a new National Assembly Building complex, which was officially inaugurated by President Yahya Jammeh. During this ceremony, the president expressed interest in expanding Banjul port and sought further funding commitments from India. In July 2014, India extended two additional lines of credit of $22.5 million each for projects focusing on electricity deployment and upgrading water infrastructure in the Greater Banjul Area, including the replacement of asbestos water pipes.
Significant further investments from India included a $92 million line of credit for the expansion of Banjul port, alongside $10 million allocated for the Gambia Rural Electrification Extension Project. These developments enhanced the port's capabilities, contributing to better shipping logistics, the establishment of a container terminal, and modernized cargo handling operations. Moreover, India's support in the field of healthcare is evident through the visit of two surgeons from BLK Hospital in September 2016, who aimed to improve medical services in The Gambia.
Educational collaboration is also a notable aspect of Gambia-India relations, highlighted by a contract awarded to the Indian firm Shapoorji Pallonji Mideast to construct the University of The Gambia (UTG) Faraba campus at a cost of $53.46 million. Furthermore, India granted $500,000 to The Gambia for procuring essential medical and educational equipment. The National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) of India is actively involved in establishing a Vocational Training Centre in The Gambia, which will offer skill training in various sectors, including plumbing, electrical work, construction, and food processing.
Many Gambian citizens benefit from educational opportunities through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. Medical collaborations have also been noteworthy, with individual cases like that of Gambian youth footballer Bubacarr Chatty, who received life-saving treatment in India for tuberculosis in July 2011. Upon his return, he was met with accolades, reflecting the deep gratitude felt towards the Indian medical community.
Recently, the Gambian Vice President Muhammad Jallow reaffirmed the commitment to strengthen the Gambia-India partnership during the India African Conclave in Delhi. His address celebrated India’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within The Gambia, signifying a continued shared vision for development and growth. This ongoing relationship is not just defined by aid; it is also characterized by mutual respect and an aspiration for a collaborative future that prioritizes economic and social progress in both nations.
Indians in The Gambia
As of 2023, the Indian community in The Gambia is estimated to consist of approximately 3,000 Indian citizens. This vibrant demographic plays a significant role in the country's economy, with most Indian nationals primarily engaged in trading and various private business ventures. Their involvement in the local economy not only contributes to the growth of businesses but also fosters cultural exchange between India and The Gambia.
The Indian community's entrepreneurial spirit is prominently showcased in the construction sector, where many are investing in infrastructure development. Their expertise in construction techniques and project management has been beneficial to The Gambia, especially as the country works towards improving its infrastructure to support economic growth. Indians in The Gambia also participate in other sectors, such as retail, telecommunications, and hospitality, further diversifying their contributions to the local economy.
Moreover, the Indian nationals contribute to the cultural tapestry of The Gambia. The community celebrates various Indian festivals such as Diwali and Holi, which garner interest from local Gambians. This cultural interaction promotes mutual understanding and respect among different ethnic groups within the country. Additionally, Indian expatriates often engage in community development initiatives, particularly in education and health, thereby enhancing their positive impact on Gambian society.
The relationship between India and The Gambia goes beyond just economic ties; it encompasses diplomatic, educational, and cultural exchanges as well. With ongoing efforts to strengthen these ties, the Indian presence in The Gambia is likely to grow, leading to enhanced collaboration in various sectors that could benefit both nations. Overall, Indians living in The Gambia not only contribute to economic development but also act as a bridge between the two countries, fostering stronger bilateral relations.
Gambians in India
India has become a prominent destination for education among Gambian nationals, with over 700 Gambian students currently enrolled in various universities across the country. This influx reflects a growing trend of international students seeking quality educational opportunities in India, drawn by its diverse and rich cultural landscape as well as the reputation of its higher education institutions. The Gambian community in India not only benefits academically but also contributes to the cultural exchange between the two nations.
Recently, a significant milestone was achieved when His Excellency Mustapha Jawara, the High Commissioner of The Gambia to India, formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yenepoya University, which is located in Mangalore. Under this agreement, 28 Gambian nationals will have the opportunity to pursue their studies at this esteemed institution. This initiative not only highlights the commitment of both countries to enhance educational collaborations but also emphasizes the importance of fostering links that can lead to knowledge transfer and skills development for Gambian students.
Moreover, the choice of Yenepoya University, known for its quality in healthcare and allied disciplines, signifies the Gambian government's focus on improving education in vital sectors. By partnering with Indian universities, Gambia aims to equip its youth with necessary skills and knowledge, ultimately contributing to the nation's development. As these students immerse themselves in India's academic culture, they are also likely to build lasting friendships and networks that can benefit Gambia in various social and economic spheres.
The growing presence of Gambians in India represents an investment in human capital that resonates with Gambia's larger developmental goals. With support from institutions and government officials, these students are set to play a significant role in their home country's future, armed with the experiences and expertise gained from their time in India.