PM Modi receives ceremonial welcome in Namibia, awarded with Welwitschia Mirabilis award

July 9, 2025

Windhoek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm ceremonial welcome in Namibia, and was awarded with Welwitschia Mirabilis award the highest civilian award in Namibia, marking the final leg of his five-nation tour and the first visit by an Indian PM to the African nation in nearly three decades.

He received the ceremonial welcome at the State House in Namibia.

The Indian national anthem was played during the event.

Later, Prime Minister Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, ‘Heroes’ Acre’, which features a white obelisk rising against the Auas Mountains, with 174 burial plots for national heroes.

President Sam Nujoma established this memorial in 2002 after visiting Zimbabwe, marking the anniversary of Namibia’s 1966 armed liberation struggle.

The memorial features a 5,000-seat grandstand, a viewing pavilion, a restaurant, and security personnel who maintain the grounds throughout operating hours.

PM Modi and the President of Namibia, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, also reviewed the full range of India-Namibia relations during the talks, which took place today.

Sharing the details in a post on X, PM Modi said that discussions between India and Namibia were held on cooperation in areas such as digital technology, defence, security, agriculture, healthcare, education and critical minerals.

PM Modi underscored that discussions also explored ways to boost linkages in trade, energy, and petrochemicals. He expressed gratitude for the assistance from Namibia in Project Cheetah.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly received by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at the State House in Windhoek, Namibia, where the two leaders shook hands.

Earlier today, PM Modi arrived at the Hosea Kutako International Airport and was met with a warm reception, as he was greeted by the Namibian Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi.

PM Modi also warmly greeted members of the diaspora, shaking hands, listening to their enthusiastic messages, and graciously accepting gifts and portraits presented by the community.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister expressed his pride in the diaspora and how they have maintained their connection to their culture and traditions.

“The Indian community in Namibia is extremely optimistic about closer India-Namibia friendship, and this is reflected in the special welcome in Windhoek. I am extremely proud of our diaspora, particularly how they have retained a connection with their culture and traditions,” PM Modi stated.