Accra: In a landmark speech to Ghana’s Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined India’s commitment to global democracy, equitable development, and closer ties with Africa. This address, delivered during the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in more than three decades, blended historical reflection, diplomatic outreach, and a passionate call for reform in international institutions.
Speaking to Ghanaian lawmakers, PM Modi emphasized the need for inclusive global governance that empowers voices from the Global South. He argued that global challenges like climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and cybersecurity require fresh responses that old institutions, formed in the 20th century, are ill-equipped to provide.
“The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance. Progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South,” Modi said. “We are proud that during our G20 presidency, the African Union was made a permanent member of the G20.”
He used the platform to reflect on India’s growing partnership with Africa, particularly in the fields of science and technology. Highlighting the symbolic connection between India’s space journey and Africa, PM Modi said, “Africa has been a part of many of India’s proudest moments in space. When Chandrayaan landed on the Moon’s South Pole, I was in Africa. And today, as an Indian astronaut conducts experiments in space for the welfare of humanity, I am once again in Africa.”
The Prime Minister’s speech resonated with both historical and contemporary themes, stressing India’s deep-rooted democratic values. Calling India “the mother of democracy,” he said, “Democracy is not just a system for us; it is a way of life. With over 2,500 political parties, 22 official languages, and thousands of dialects, India represents the essence of diversity and inclusion.”
He referenced ancient Indian democratic traditions, including the example of Vaishali, one of the world’s earliest republics, and quoted the Rigveda: “Let good thoughts come to us from all directions.” This, he said, reflects the openness that forms the core of democratic values.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to Ghana’s founding President and Pan-African leader Dr. Kwame Nkrumah at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra. Accompanied by Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Modi laid a wreath and observed a moment of silence at the site.
“Dr. Nkrumah once said that the forces that unite us are greater than those that divide us. His words continue to guide our shared journey,” Modi said in his speech.
Dr. Nkrumah, who led Ghana to independence in 1957, was a founding force behind the Non-Aligned Movement, a global platform that India also helped shape. PM Modi’s reference to Nkrumah underscored the historical affinity and shared values between India and Africa.
Strengthened Bilateral Relationship
During the visit, both nations agreed to elevate their ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. This enhanced relationship will include expanded cooperation in areas such as education, health care, digital technology, climate action, and trade.
In a ceremonial event on Wednesday evening, PM Modi was conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian honour—The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana—by President John Dramani Mahama. The award, bestowed in recognition of Modi’s statesmanship and contributions to global peace and development, marked a high point in the visit.
“I am truly humbled to receive this national honour from President Mahama. I accept it on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” PM Modi said. “I dedicate this to the youth of our two nations, to our shared future, and to our cultural and democratic traditions.”
Describing Ghana as “the land of gold,” Modi lauded the nation not just for its natural resources but also for the warmth and hospitality of its people. “As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill of every Indian citizen,” he said.
Vision for a Just Global Order
The visit has been widely seen as a pivotal moment in India’s outreach to Africa. It reflects New Delhi’s strategic focus on building stronger partnerships across the continent, not only through economic and technological collaboration but also through shared democratic values and mutual respect.
PM Modi’s message in Ghana echoed a broader vision of a multipolar world where countries of the Global South play a decisive role in shaping international policies and institutions.
He concluded his address with a strong message of unity and respect:
“It is a privilege to stand in this historic Parliament, in a land that radiates the spirit of democracy. India and Ghana, and indeed all of Africa, must walk forward together—equal partners in a world where justice, dignity, and opportunity are shared by all.”
The Prime Minister’s Ghana visit, coming at a time of growing global polarization, projected a confident and inclusive India seeking a stronger, reformed international order—one that truly reflects the voices and aspirations of developing nations.
