Historical Ties
India and Zimbabwe share a rich history marked by close and cordial relations, dating back to the era of the Munhumutapa Kingdom. During this period, Indian merchants established significant trade links with Zimbabwe, engaging in commerce involving textiles, minerals, and metals. These early interactions fostered a legacy of cultural and economic exchange. Notably, members of the royal family in Zimbabwe traveled to India to pursue their education, reflecting the historical significance of Indian knowledge systems during that time. A prominent figure, Dom Miguel, heir to the Mutapa throne, made his scholarly journey to Goa in the 17th century. His legacy is commemorated by an inscribed pillar in a chapel in Goa, highlighting his contributions as a scholar and a leader.
Support for Independence
India played a crucial role in supporting Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence from colonial rule. The involvement of Indian leaders was particularly significant during this transformative period in Zimbabwe's history. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's presence at the independence celebrations in 1980 was a strong message of solidarity from India. This support carried on through several high-level visits over the years. Notable Indian leaders such as Prime Ministers Rajiv Gandhi, Narasimha Rao, and H. D. Deve Gowda visited Zimbabwe to attend various international summits, further deepening the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The bilateral ties were marked by mutual respect and collaboration across various sectors, promoting a shared vision for development and empowerment.
High-Level Exchanges
The relationship between India and Zimbabwe was characterized by numerous high-profile visits, demonstrating mutual interest in fostering stronger ties. In 1986, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi attended the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, reinforcing India’s commitment to a multipolar world. The exchanges continued with multiple visits by Indian leaders to Zimbabwe, including significant state visits by Presidents R. Venkataraman and S. D. Sharma in the early 1990s, which were pivotal in strengthening bilateral ties. On the other hand, Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe made several trips to India, reflecting the importance of robust diplomatic relations, especially through his attendance at international summits, such as the G-15 Summit and the Nehru Award Presentation.
Recent Interactions
In more recent years, the interactions between the two nations have continued with more official visits, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to collaboration. In 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu's official visit to Zimbabwe marked a significant milestone, encouraging continued dialogue on various developmental issues. Similarly, Vice President General (Retd) Dr. C.G.N. Chiwenga's visit to India as a special envoy of President Emmerson Mnangagwa underscored the enduring nature of the bilateral relationship. These visits highlight a mutual intention to deepen economic, political, and cultural ties, reflecting both historical bonds and contemporary aspirations for collaboration in the fields of trade, technology, and education.
Overall, the long-standing friendship between India and Zimbabwe continues to evolve, grounded in a shared history and an ongoing commitment to cooperation for mutual benefit.
Capacity Building Initiatives
India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Zimbabwe is prominently reflected in its capacity-building initiatives, particularly through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships. These initiatives aim to enhance the skills and expertise of Zimbabweans across various sectors. The ITEC program, established in 1964, has consistently provided invaluable training opportunities for Zimbabwean nationals, making significant contributions to their professional development. The demand for these scholarships remains high, as they offer Zimbabweans a pathway to acquire quality education and training in various fields.
In the fiscal year 2017-18, the utilization of ITEC slots reached a total of 235, alongside 9 ICCR scholarships and 34 slots under the Indo-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-III). This trend continued into the following year, where, between April and December 2018, 169 ITEC slots were utilized, accompanied by 5 defense ITEC slots and 9 ICCR scholarships. Over the past decade, more than 1400 Zimbabweans have benefited from short-term civilian courses in India, reflecting the program's role in empowering the workforce of Zimbabwe.
Strengthening education and business partnerships has also been a focal point of cooperation. The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, in conjunction with ZimTrade, facilitated an Executive Development Programme on International Business in Zimbabwe on two occasions—in Harare in November 2014 and then in Bulawayo in March 2015. These programs aimed to enhance the managerial skills of professionals in Zimbabwe and promote better business practices aligned with international standards.
Furthermore, the collaboration extends to higher education, with various memoranda of understanding established between prestigious Indian institutions and the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT). This collaboration allows HIT students to pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master of Technology in fields including engineering and technology at esteemed universities in India. Notable institutions involved in this exchange include the Delhi Technological University, Amity University, and IIT Madras, among others. This influx of knowledge not only fosters academic ties but also enhances technological expertise within Zimbabwe.
Additionally, the Government of Zimbabwe actively supports educational opportunities for its youth through the Presidential and National Scholarship Programme. In 2018, this initiative saw 42 Zimbabwean students sent to Shimla University, showcasing the government’s commitment to providing scholarships that enhance educational prospects. This scholarship program is co-sponsored by Shimla University, further exemplifying collaborative efforts to enrich the educational landscape and cultivate a skilled workforce that can contribute to Zimbabwe's development.
Economic Relations
The economic relationship between India and Zimbabwe has seen significant developments, particularly reflected in the bilateral trade figures. In the fiscal year 2014–15, trade between the two nations reached a substantial USD 222.31 million. Notably, Indian exports to Zimbabwe made up the bulk of this figure at $222.19 million, indicating Zimbabwe's reliance on Indian goods and services, while imports from Zimbabwe amounted to a modest $120,000. This trade dynamic highlights India's role as a vital partner for Zimbabwe, especially as the latter has increasingly adopted its 'Look East Policy,' which emphasizes strengthening economic ties with Asian nations, particularly India.
Trade and Investment Framework
The foundation of India-Zimbabwe relations in trade and investment was established with the signing of the Joint Commission Agreement in January 1987. Over the years, four productive Joint Commission meetings have taken place, the first hosted in Delhi in 1987, followed by gatherings in Harare and returning to Delhi, with the last meeting occurring in 1996. However, due to Zimbabwe’s prolonged economic challenges, subsequent meetings have been postponed, although plans for a fifth meeting are currently in the works to reinvigorate dialogue and cooperation. The strategic framework was further bolstered by a signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi in February 2012, followed by the second Joint Trade Committee between the two countries in Harare in March 2013.
Recent Developments in Trade Agreements
In addition to these dialogues, a critical advancement in the bilateral relationship occurred with the signing of an Air Services Agreement on June 19, 2014, in Harare. This agreement is expected to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade and tourism between the two nations. Moreover, various Indian public sector firms have cemented their presence in Zimbabwe by investing in infrastructure and services. Notable companies such as Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON), Rail India Technical & Economic Services (RITES), and Telecommunications India Ltd. (TCIL) have been actively involved in key projects that benefit Zimbabwe's infrastructure development. Agricultural exports have also flourished, with companies like Kirloskar and Jain Irrigation supplying essential irrigation equipment.
Pharmaceutical and Energy Sectors
The pharmaceutical industry represents another robust area of Indian investment in Zimbabwe, with numerous Indian pharmaceutical firms dominating the market. The availability of Indian medicines contributes significantly to Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector, ensuring access to various essential drugs. Furthermore, contributions from the energy sector have been made, exemplified by the contract awarded to Chadha Power in April 2008. This contract focused on the refurbishment of four units at the Hwange Thermal Power Station, a vital facility located near Victoria Falls, aimed at enhancing Zimbabwe's energy production capabilities. This multifaceted cooperation showcases the depth and potential of India-Zimbabwe relations across various sectors, facilitating mutual growth and development.
Indian Foreign Aid to Zimbabwe
India has played a significant role in enhancing human resource development and capacity building in Zimbabwe through various initiatives. One of the key programs is the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships, which are offered to Zimbabwean citizens, allowing them to pursue educational and professional development opportunities in India. These scholarships not only aid in skill enhancement but also foster a deeper bilateral relationship between the two nations.
In times of crisis, India has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe. For instance, in 2003, during a severe drought that impacted food security in the country, India provided 50,000 tonnes of rice to assist those in need. This support was reiterated in 2015, when India sent an additional 500 tonnes of rice. Furthermore, India has directed financial assistance towards strengthening the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector in Zimbabwe, allocating US$5 million for the Indo-Zimbabwe Technology Centre, which was inaugurated by then-President Robert Mugabe in 2008. The project's final phase was concluded in February 2013, marking a significant step toward capacity building in the local economy.
In addition to scholarship programs and emergency food aid, India has taken significant strides in establishing educational and technological infrastructure in Zimbabwe. In 2012, three 'Hole-In-The-Wall' computer learning stations were set up, creating access to technology for many. The government is also working on establishing a Vocational Training Center and a Food Testing Laboratory, although progress on these projects has been slow. There is ongoing work, supported by a Line of Credit (LOC) from the Government of India, for the upgrade of critical infrastructure such as the Deka Pumping Station and River Water Intake System, a project that has received additional funding.
Expanding its engagement, India signed an agreement on October 27, 2015, concerning an US$87 million LOC for the renovation and upgrade of the Bulawayo Thermal Power Plant. This financial support package was complemented by an additional US$23 million, underscoring India's strategic interest in Zimbabwe's energy sector. Furthermore, an agreement worth US$49.92 million facilitated the supply of vehicles and spare parts from Ashok Leyland Ltd. to Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Tourism, while mining equipment valued at US$13.03 million was provided by BEML Ltd. to Hwange Colliery Company.
In November 2018, during the visit of Indian Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu to Zimbabwe, a series of announcements were made that included an impressive US$310 million LOC aimed at upgrading the Hwange Thermal Power Station. Additional financial commitments such as US$23 million for the Bulawayo Thermal Power Plant and US$19.5 million for the Deka Pumping and River Water Intake System further illustrated India's dedication to Zimbabwe's infrastructure development. Alongside these initiatives, a US$2.93 million grant for the upgrade of the Indo-Zim Technology Centre, gifting of 10 Indian-made ambulances, lifesaving drugs, and the provision of skilled experts in critical health areas further emphasized the multifaceted nature of India-Zimbabwe relations. Through these efforts, India continues to play a vital role in Zimbabwe's development, fostering economic resilience and capacity building.
Indians in Zimbabwe
The presence of Indians in Zimbabwe dates back to the late 19th century, around 1890, when Indian plantation workers, initially from the British South Africa Company in apartheid-era South Africa, migrated across the border into Rhodesia. This migration marked the beginning of significant Indian settlement in the region. Currently, the population of Zimbabweans of Indian descent is estimated to be around 9,000, with many hailing from the province of Gujarat in India. The Indian community in Zimbabwe has established various societies that function largely on religious lines; nevertheless, they coexist peacefully and harmoniously within the broader Zimbabwean society. Over the years, this community has primarily engaged in retail trade and export-import businesses. In more recent times, younger generations have sought career opportunities abroad, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and information technology. Additionally, a notable number of people of Indian origin hold British or Australian citizenship, reflecting their global connections.
The expatriate Indian community in Zimbabwe is significantly smaller, estimated to number around 500 individuals. This group mainly consists of professionals possessing long-term business or work permits, with their contributions spanning sectors like computer software, banking, and accountancy. The stature of the Indian community in Zimbabwe is generally high, characterized by mutual respect and camaraderie with the indigenous population. Highlighting this positive relationship, members of the Indian diaspora have reached notable positions in Zimbabwean society. For instance, Senator K. G. Patel served on the Politburo and the Central Committee of the ruling party until his passing in 2011. He was posthumously accorded Hero status in 2012. Furthermore, Justice Bharat Patel, of Indian origin and currently a Supreme Court Judge, possesses a distinguished career in the judiciary, further solidifying the community's standing in the nation. Justice Ahmed Ebrahim, a retired judge, was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman in 2004 for his contributions to society. Additionally, Mr. Raj Modi, another prominent figure, was elected as a Member of Parliament for ZANU-PF from Bulawayo South and appointed Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce in September 2018, illustrating the community's active participation in Zimbabwean governance.
Bilateral Trade
The economic relationship between India and Zimbabwe has evolved over the years, significantly shaped by bilateral trade. The trade data over several fiscal years illustrates this development, particularly in the areas of exports and imports. In the fiscal year 2010-11, India exported goods worth approximately 113.95 million USD to Zimbabwe, while imports from Zimbabwe were substantially lower at 11.56 million USD. Trade levels experienced fluctuations, peaking in the fiscal year 2014-15 when exports soared to 223.96 million USD and imports increased to 32.70 million USD. This trend indicates a growing economic interdependence, even as figures have varied in subsequent years. For instance, trade in the fiscal year 2015-16 saw a decline in exports to 205.08 million USD, but imports spiked significantly to 24.45 million USD. As seen in the fiscal year 2016-17, while exports fell further to 109.08 million USD, imports from Zimbabwe had surged to 60.46 million USD, reflecting a dynamic trade relationship influenced by various external factors.
Overall, the Indian community's rich historical presence and contributions, coupled with robust bilateral trade, highlight the enduring and evolving relationship between India and Zimbabwe. This connection is characterized not only by cultural ties but also by economic interactions that continue to hold promise for both nations as they navigate the complexities of the global economy.