When the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV) is eventually held, after its original May 2026 date was postponed, one question should stand at the centre of its digital agenda: how can India and Africa create Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) that stays nationally owned and sustainable long after external funding and early political support fade away?

Over the past decade, India–Africa digital cooperation has evolved beyond basic connectivity and e-governance. Both sides now view DPI as a tool for inclusive growth, stronger institutions, and better public services. African governments are deliberately driving digital transformation by leveraging strengths in mobile payments, digital finance, and regional integration. The real test, however, is moving from initial rollout to full institutionalisation. Many projects collapse when donor funding dries up, and systems must compete with hospitals, schools, and roads for limited national budgets. This issue deserves a central place at IAFS IV.