India’s Historic Engagement with Africa: PM Modi’s Landmark Address in Ghana

On July 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history as the first Indian leader in over three decades to address the Ghanaian Parliament. His visit marked a renewed commitment by India to strengthen ties with African nations and to foster a partnership built on shared growth, mutual respect, and global cooperation. Against the backdrop of shifting geopolitical landscapes and growing calls for reform in global governance, Modiji’s speech underscored India’s vision of Africa as a critical partner in shaping the future of the Global South.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Ghana Parliament in Accra on Thursday. (AFP) | Hindustan Times

Renewing the India–Africa Partnership

In his address, PM Modi highlighted the deepening relationship between India and Africa, driven by a “demand-driven” approach that emphasizes empowering local communities through infrastructure development and capacity building. India currently supports over 200 development projects across the continent, spanning areas such as connectivity, industrial growth, and social infrastructure. This approach signifies a shift from traditional donor-recipient dynamics to one focused on sustainable, inclusive growth where African nations chart their own developmental pathways.

India’s ties with Ghana, in particular, were elevated to a “comprehensive partnership” during this visit. Both countries committed to doubling their bilateral trade from the current USD 3 billion to USD 6 billion within five years. The partnership also includes cooperation in defence, food security, pharmaceuticals, and vaccine development. This collaboration reflects a multifaceted relationship that goes beyond economics, embracing technological exchange and cultural affinity.

Celebrating Cultural Kinship and Historical Bonds

The visit was not only symbolic but also culturally significant. Modiji was honored with Ghana’s highest civilian award, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, and was received with full ceremonial grandeur, including a 21-gun salute. The Ghanaian Parliament showed its respect by donning traditional Indian attire during Modiji’s speech, a vivid demonstration of the warmth and friendship between the two nations.

Modiji drew on historical parallels, paying tribute to Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, by quoting his words that emphasize unity amidst diversity: “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.” He also connected Indian and Ghanaian democratic values by referencing the Rig Veda, highlighting the shared commitment to democracy, freedom, and pluralism that binds the two countries.

Advocating for Global Governance Reform and Democracy

Addressing the Ghanaian lawmakers, PM Modi articulated a vision for a reformed global order that reflects the aspirations and voices of the Global South. He stressed that institutions established in the aftermath of World War II must evolve to keep pace with today’s multipolar realities. The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 was celebrated as a vital step towards more equitable representation.

Modiji also praised Ghana’s vibrant democracy, describing the country as “a land that radiates the spirit of democracy.” He drew attention to India’s own democratic diversity, with over 2,500 political parties and 22 official languages, underscoring the strength found in embracing pluralism. His message resonated as a call to deepen democratic values and cooperation across continents.

Strategic Cooperation and Technological Partnership

India’s engagement with Africa extends beyond diplomacy and culture into concrete strategic cooperation. Ghana’s adoption of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system promises to revolutionize digital payments, facilitating greater financial inclusion. Furthermore, joint initiatives in traditional medicine education and pharmaceutical cooperation have been formalized through new Memorandums of Understanding.

India’s development assistance programs such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and the Special Commonwealth Assistance for Africa Programme (SCAAP) continue to build technical skills and human capital across the continent. The Pan-African e-Network initiative, which provides tele-education and tele-medicine services, further exemplifies India’s commitment to leveraging technology to uplift African societies.

Moreover, the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor—a collaborative framework involving India, Japan, and African nations—aims to enhance infrastructure, digital connectivity, agriculture, and healthcare, reinforcing a collective vision for sustainable development.

Looking Forward: A Vision of Shared Prosperity

PM Modi’s visit to Ghana is the first step in a broader diplomatic journey, signaling India’s long-term strategy to engage more deeply with Africa and the Global South. Beyond trade and technology, this engagement embodies a commitment to equitable partnerships based on respect, cultural ties, and shared democratic values.

India’s decades-long history of cooperation with Africa, through initiatives like the Pan-African e-Network and extensive technical assistance, has laid a strong foundation for this renewed focus. The ongoing efforts aim to foster a relationship where both India and African nations grow together as equals, navigating the complexities of the 21st century with a united voice.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic address to Ghana’s Parliament encapsulated a moment of profound significance in India–Africa relations. By reaffirming India’s support for Africa’s development, advocating for global institutional reform, and celebrating the deep cultural and democratic links between the two regions, Modiji charted a course for a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations. As India embarks on this ambitious path of engagement with Africa, the promise of a collaborative future based on sustainable development, technological innovation, and democratic solidarity shines bright.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV, TOI)