Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed Ghana as a “beacon of hope for democratic governance and inclusive development” during his landmark address to Ghana’s Parliament, marking a new chapter in the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
Speaking before lawmakers and dignitaries on Thursday, Prime Minister Modi praised Ghana’s democratic credentials, highlighting its stability, peaceful political transitions, and leadership in West Africa as an example for the rest of the continent.
“Ghana’s democratic journey is a source of inspiration—not only for Africa, but for the world.
India stands proudly beside Ghana as it continues to uphold the values of democracy, dignity, and development,” he said.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Trade, Security, and Development at the Forefront
Mr. Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over a decade, marks a strategic deepening of Indo-Ghanaian relations.
During his address, he outlined an ambitious roadmap to enhance economic and security cooperation, pledging to double bilateral trade between India and Ghana within the next five years.
Currently, Indian companies have invested close to $2 billion in approximately 900 projects across Ghana, spanning sectors such as agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and manufacturing.
The Prime Minister stated that these investments will be scaled up significantly under the new partnership framework.
India will also support Ghana’s flagship “Feed Ghana” agricultural initiative, aimed at enhancing food security and transforming agribusiness.
Additionally, Mr. Modi announced plans to establish a Skill Development Centre in Ghana, offering vocational training to youth and boosting employment.
Defence and Security Cooperation
On the security front, both nations agreed to enhance collaboration in counterterrorism, cyber security, maritime safety, training of armed forces, and defence logistics.
Mr. Modi emphasized the shared commitment to regional peace and security, noting the need for a coordinated response to evolving security challenges across Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Honouring Ghana’s Founding Father
In a symbolic and heartfelt moment, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a revered pan-Africanist.
Mr. Modi described Nkrumah as a “visionary whose ideals of freedom, dignity, and self-reliance align deeply with the values cherished by India’s own founding fathers.”
“Dr. Nkrumah’s legacy of leadership resonates with our shared struggles against colonialism and our enduring pursuit of justice and equity,” he added.
A Model South-South Partnership
Mr. Modi emphasized the significance of the India-Ghana partnership within the broader context of South-South cooperation, describing it as a model of mutual respect, shared history, and forward-looking development.
He expressed confidence that the partnership will not only uplift both countries but also serve as a catalyst for regional progress in Africa and Asia alike.
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