Narendra Modi’s Historic Visit to Ghana: A New Chapter in India-Africa Relations

On July 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Accra, Ghana, marking a significant milestone as the first Indian prime minister to visit the West African nation in three decades. This visit, the opening leg of Modiji’s ambitious eight-day, five-nation tour, highlights India’s renewed focus on strengthening ties with African countries and the broader Global South. Modiji was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at Kotoka International Airport by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, featuring a guard of honour and a 21-gun salute — gestures symbolizing the deep respect and friendship between the two nations.

PM Modi becomes first Indian PM in 30 years to visit Ghana; receives Guard of Honour, 21-gun salute(DD/ANI Grab) | LiveMint

A Warm and Culturally Rich Welcome

The atmosphere in Accra was charged with enthusiasm and cultural resonance. Local children greeted Prime Minister Modi with chants of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna,” reflecting the strong cultural and spiritual links shared by India and Ghana. Traditional drumming and dancing further underscored the warmth of the reception. The Indian diaspora in Ghana, an active and vibrant community, also came out in large numbers to welcome Modiji with chants of “Modi-Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” This spirited reception not only celebrated Modiji’s arrival but also highlighted the historical and ongoing connections between the peoples of India and Ghana.

Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Bonds

The two-day state visit is designed to deepen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. Discussions between the two leaders are expected to focus on expanding economic partnerships, with India aiming to double trade volumes with Ghana over the next five years. Energy cooperation and agricultural development, including support for Ghana’s “Feed Ghana” initiative, are key priorities. Additionally, India plans to enhance health collaboration by expanding scholarship programs and technical training under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) scheme and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).

Security cooperation is another cornerstone of the dialogue, with proposals to increase military exchanges, collaborate on maritime security, and jointly address cyber threats. Development initiatives such as rural electrification, agribusiness, and waste management will also be part of the agenda, reflecting a comprehensive approach to partnership that blends economic growth with sustainable development.

Strategic Significance of Ghana in India’s Africa Policy

Ghana holds a crucial position in Africa, both geographically and politically. As a prominent member of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ghana is a key partner in regional stability and development. India’s renewed engagement with Ghana underscores its broader strategy to deepen ties within the Global South and enhance South-South cooperation. Modiji’s address to Ghana’s Parliament during this visit symbolizes a shared commitment to democratic values and mutual respect, reinforcing the foundation for a robust bilateral relationship.

The Larger Diplomatic Mission: Modiji’s Five-Nation Tour

Prime Minister Modi’s Ghana visit inaugurates a comprehensive diplomatic mission spanning five countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Following Ghana, he will visit Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia. Each stop is strategically selected to reinforce India’s global outreach and partnerships with emerging economies.

In Trinidad and Tobago, Modiji will engage with a large diaspora community and address the nation’s parliament, reflecting India’s deep-rooted cultural and historical connections in the Caribbean. His visit to Argentina will mark the first by an Indian prime minister in 57 years and aims to boost cooperation in agriculture, mining, energy, and trade.

Brazil, a fellow BRICS member, will host Modiji for the BRICS Summit, where discussions will focus on economic cooperation and shared Global South priorities. The visit to Namibia will close the tour, reinforcing India’s growing engagement with Southern Africa through parliamentary addresses and state visits.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

India and Ghana have enjoyed diplomatic relations since Ghana’s independence in 1957. Over the decades, India has invested significantly in Ghana’s development, particularly in sectors like information technology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. Initiatives such as the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre for Excellence in ICT exemplify the enduring partnership between the two countries.

The current visit represents an opportunity to elevate this relationship to new heights. By expanding development cooperation, facilitating technology transfer, and fostering capacity building, India and Ghana seek to create sustainable growth that benefits both nations. The emphasis on joint development projects and economic collaboration signals a future-oriented partnership rooted in shared values and mutual benefit.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ghana is a landmark moment in India’s diplomatic history, reinvigorating a vital partnership in Africa. The visit encapsulates India’s vision of enhancing South-South cooperation through multifaceted engagement spanning economics, culture, security, and governance. As Modiji’s five-nation tour unfolds, the outcomes of his Ghana visit will set the tone for India’s broader strategy to deepen ties with key global partners, reinforcing its role as a champion of inclusive development and global cooperation.

(Sources: LiveMint, News18, India Today)