Prime Minister Modi addressed Namibian Parliament
● Andreas Sheya
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian leader in 27 years to address the Parliament of Namibia.This comes after the Prime Minister addressed Namibian members of Parliament earlier in July this year.
Welcoming him, Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila called the occasion “a moment of historical significance” and a reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between the two countries.
She praised India’s longstanding support for Namibia’s independence struggle, describing the visit as a milestone in deepening bilateral ties rooted in shared democratic values and solidarity.
“India was among the first countries to extend formal diplomatic recognition to SWAPO and hosted our liberation leaders during the fight for our freedom,” the Speaker said.
Prior to his parliamentary address, the Prime Minister paid a visit to President Netumbo Ndaitwah, where the two leaders signed a number of memorandums of understanding between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi acknowledged Namibia’s democratic strength and described it 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.
The Prime Minister 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.
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.
Speaking during the visit, 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 urged 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. T
The address marked a significant milestone in India–Namibia relations and reinforced the power of democratic diplomacy in shaping a shared global future.
