Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first Indian PM to visit Namibia in 27 years, marking a historic step in revitalizing India's ties with the African nation. The visit, part of his five-nation diplomatic tour, is expected to enhance cooperation in technology, health, infrastructure, energy, and security.

A Long-Standing Friendship

India and Namibia share a deep-rooted relationship. As early as 1946, India raised the issue of Namibia’s independence in the United Nations. In 1986, India welcomed the first overseas office of SWAPO—Namibia’s leading liberation movement—granting it full diplomatic recognition. India also provided military training during Namibia’s fight against apartheid-era South Africa.

When Namibia gained independence in 1990, India was among the first nations to upgrade its observer mission to a full High Commission. Namibia reciprocated by opening a residential mission in New Delhi in 1994. Former President Sam Nujoma visited India 11 times, reflecting the warmth between the two nations.

Modi's Visit After 27 Years

The last Indian Prime Minister to visit Namibia was Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998. Former President Pranab Mukherjee visited in 2016 and addressed the Namibian Parliament, reaffirming India’s support during their freedom struggle and commitment to development cooperation.

Strengthening Strategic and Economic Ties

Namibia is the third-largest producer of uranium and also rich in lithium and zinc—critical for energy and electronics industries. Trade between the two countries has reached $654 million, with India's exports at $418 million and imports at $235 million. Key items include pharmaceuticals, machinery, grains, and mineral oil.

India’s investments in Namibia are worth $800 million, including the establishment of the India Wing at Ongwediva campus of the University of Namibia, built with a $12 million grant. India has also been training Namibian defence personnel, health officials, diplomats—and even cricketers.

Mutual Support in Crisis

India has consistently supported Namibia in times of crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India supplied 30,000 doses of Covishield vaccine. In response to severe droughts in 2017 and 2019, India donated rice and extended help during other natural disasters. Namibia, in turn, has backed India’s bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council.

Cheetah Diplomacy and Symbolic Cooperation

In 2022, India and Namibia entered into a landmark agreement that allowed the reintroduction of cheetahs into India’s wildlife ecosystem. Eight cheetahs were relocated from Namibia to Indian reserves, a move that captured global attention and symbolized growing ecological cooperation.

A Strategic Move in Africa

While China dominates trade in Africa with over $200 billion, India is the fourth-largest trading partner, recording $100 billion in 2023. India has completed 206 infrastructure projects in 43 African countries and has 65 more underway. Since 1996, Indian investments in Africa total $76 billion, expected to rise to $150 billion by 2030, according to the CII.