On 9 July 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a landmark address to the Parliament of Namibia during his first official visit to the country. The session convened at the invitation of the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Dr Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila and marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister addressed the Namibian legislature.
Prime Minister Modi began by acknowledging Namibia’s democratic strength and its role as a beacon of freedom and progress in Africa. He paid tribute to the country’s founding father, Dr Sam Nujoma, and highlighted the long-standing solidarity between India and Namibia, rooted in shared struggles against colonialism and a mutual commitment to justice and equality. Modi described India and Namibia as “partners in progress,” stating that their relationship is not defined by transactional interests but by trust, respect, and shared values.
Throughout his address, Modi emphasized areas of mutual cooperation that reflect both countries’ aspirations for inclusive development. He underscored India’s readiness to support Namibia in healthcare delivery, digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, and youth skills development. Drawing on India’s achievements in digital governance and vaccine innovation, Modi offered India’s partnership to help Namibia meet its national development goals. He also celebrated the recent milestone of Africa’s permanent representation in the G20, achieved under India’s presidency, and reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring African voices are heard on the global stage.
The Speaker welcomed Prime Minister Modi with words of appreciation, describing the visit as a significant affirmation of democratic friendship. Members of Parliament responded with warmth and praise, noting the speech’s inclusive and empowering tone. Hon. Prof. Job Amupanda, described the visit as a “redefinition” of the India-Namibia relationship, signaling a new era of practical, people-centered cooperation in technology, health, and youth development.
The Prime Minister closed his remarks with a call to action, urging both countries to continue building a future that honors their shared sacrifices and meets the needs of the next generation. His message resonated across party lines and marked a memorable moment in Namibia’s parliamentary history, reinforcing the growing strategic, cultural, and economic bond between the two democracies, as the session concluded with a standing ovation. The address marked a significant milestone in India–Namibia relations and reinforced the power of democratic diplomacy in shaping a shared global future
