India–Africa Co-Operation on Maritime Security: Need for Deeper Engagement

Njoki Mboce

Ms. Njoki Mboce is a lawyer, consultant, academic and policy advisor. She has been a Visiting Fellow at the ALACUN Centre, IDSA, under the Africa Visiting Fellowship Programme. read more

With approximately 74 million Sq Km and 20per cent of the global ocean, the Indian Ocean is the third largest ocean in the world. Alarmingly, this area has over the last two decades been plagued with unprecedented grave maritime security challenges. Dauntingly, these problems are dynamic and cross-jurisdictional. Consequently, combating them necessitates combined efforts among states. This article explores the efficacy of the maritime security architecture within the Indian Ocean rim countries, focusing on the co-operation between India and African states. The article draws out strengths and challenges from the current framework, ultimately offering recommendations for achieving a more productive trans-national approach.