 "File Image- PM Narendra Modi")
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday invoked the shared legacy of struggle and solidarity between the two nations, reminding lawmakers that India had supported Namibia’s liberation even before gaining its own independence.
In a historic address to Namibia’s Parliament on Friday, PM Modi said “The people of India stood proudly with Namibia during your liberation struggle. Even before our own independence, India raised the issue of South West Africa at the United Nations… It was an Indian Lieutenant General, Dewan Prem Chand, who led the UN peacekeeping force in Namibia. India is proud to have stood with you, not just in words but in action…"
PM Modi also said that Namibia would become the first African nation to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a digital payments system that has revolutionised financial inclusion across India.
“Soon, a Himba grandmother in Kunene or a shopkeeper in Katutura will be able to go digital with just a tap, faster than a Springbok,” Modi said, drawing applause as he invoked local imagery to underscore the speed and reach of the technology. We are thrilled that Namibia is the first country to adopt India’s UPI. People will soon be able to send money faster than one can say ‘Tangi Unene’,” he added.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsReflecting on the broader India-Namibia partnership, Modi said bilateral trade had crossed $800 million, but likened it to “just warming up” before a big game, promising, “we will score faster and score more.”
The Prime Minister also announced India’s offer to supply Namibia with the Bhabhatron radiotherapy machine for advanced cancer care. “Developed in India, the Bhabhatron has already helped nearly half a million patients in 15 countries. India is ready to support Namibia with this critical technology,” Modi said. He also invited Namibia to join India’s Jan Aushadhi initiative to improve access to affordable and quality medicines.
Recalling India’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi said India stood with Africa when others hesitated. “Our Aarogya Maitri initiative supports Africa with hospitals, equipment, medicines, and training,” he said.
Modi struck an emotional chord while thanking Namibia for its role in reintroducing cheetahs to India. “We are deeply grateful for your gift. I had the privilege of releasing them into Kuno National Park. They have sent a message for you — everything is fine. They are happy and have grown in number,” he said.
Receiving Namibia’s highest civilian honour, Modi called it “a symbol of the friendship between our peoples.” Drawing a parallel with the country’s resilient national plant, he said, “Like your Welwitschia Mirabilis, our friendship only grows stronger with age and time.”
Modi also reminded the Parliament of India’s longstanding solidarity with Namibia during its struggle for independence. “Even before our own independence, India raised the issue of South West Africa at the United Nations,” he said, noting that Indian Lieutenant General Dewan Prem Chand led the UN peacekeeping force in Namibia.