Prime Minister Narendra Modi has added another milestone to his diplomatic journey. On July 9, 2025, he was awarded Namibia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis. This rare recognition symbolizes deepening ties between India and the African continent.
Namibia Honours PM Modi
The award was presented by Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during Modi’s maiden visit to the country. This visit is historic—it marks only the third time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Namibia since its independence in 1990.
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi said, “It is a matter of pride to receive Namibia’s highest civilian honour. I accept it on behalf of 140 crore Indians.”
PM Modi arrived in Windhoek on Wednesday morning, directly from Brazil, where he had just received the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross—Brazil’s highest civilian honour.
His African stop is part of a broader five-nation diplomatic tour, aiming to expand India’s global footprint through strategic partnerships in key areas.
Focus Areas: Tech, Energy, and Health
During bilateral talks, India and Namibia emphasized cooperation in:
- Digital technology
- Defence and security
- Agriculture and healthcare
- Education
- Critical minerals and renewable energy
PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We reviewed the full range of India-Namibia relations. Cooperation in digital tech, defence, agriculture, and critical minerals figured prominently.”
India and Namibia Sign 4 Key Agreements
Four important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed:
- Health and Medicine Collaboration
- Entrepreneurship Development Centre
- Global Biofuels Alliance Framework
- Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) Framework
These agreements pave the way for shared innovation, sustainable development, and a stronger Global South alliance.
Project Cheetah: Conservation Meets Diplomacy
PM Modi also thanked Namibia for its support in Project Cheetah, which helped reintroduce cheetahs to India after seven decades. Namibia played a crucial role by donating the first batch of cheetahs in 2022 under this ecological initiative.
Honouring a Liberation Icon
Before formal discussions, PM Modi visited the Heroes’ Acre National Memorial to pay tribute to Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father and first President. The gesture underlined India’s long-standing solidarity with African liberation movements.
A Ceremonial Welcome in Windhoek
PM Modi received a traditional welcome, a guard of honour, and a 21-gun salute at the State House. The reception showcased the warmth and respect shared between the two democracies.
A Strategic Move in Africa
Namibia holds rich reserves of uranium, lithium, and rare earth minerals—resources vital to India’s clean energy and tech ambitions. Ties with Namibia align with India’s strategic focus on resource-rich African partners.
In return, India brings expertise in digital governance, health infrastructure, and skill development, reinforcing its role as a key global partner.
India-Africa Relations on the Rise
This visit marks a continuation of India’s rising diplomatic and economic engagement with Africa. With similar outreach in Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, and Mozambique in recent years, India aims to be Africa’s trusted development partner.
Namibia’s recognition of PM Modi is not just symbolic—it’s a signal that India’s inclusive diplomacy and mutual respect approach is gaining ground globally.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s recognition in Namibia is more than just an award. It’s a reflection of India’s growing influence and its commitment to global partnerships rooted in mutual growth and respect. As Africa rises, India is walking with it—side by side.