(3 Minutes Read)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Namibia on July 9, 2025—his first and the first by an Indian PM in over 30 years—marked a significant shift in India’s engagement with Africa. Against the backdrop of China’s growing dominance in Africa’s mineral and digital sectors, Modi’s trip emphasized India’s drive for strategic mineral access, digital cooperation, and development-oriented partnerships.
Namibia, rich in uranium, lithium, cobalt, and rare earths, is central to India’s Critical Minerals Mission and its clean energy goals. Key outcomes included revived uranium deals and new MOUs on joint mineral exploration, sustainable mining, and technology transfer—aligned with international environmental and labour standards. These moves aim to secure resources critical to semiconductors, EVs, and nuclear power, while countering China’s supply-chain control.
The visit also boosted economic and digital ties. With trade already nearing USD 800 million, Modi advocated direct diamond trade and announced the rollout of India’s UPI payment system in Namibia, promoting financial inclusion and offering a transparent alternative to China’s digital infrastructure push.
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India’s “mineral-plus-digital” diplomacy presents it as a responsible partner, not only extracting resources but investing in local development and regional access through corridors like Walvis Bay. Cultural, defense, and technical cooperation—anchored in long-standing programs like ITEC—added further depth. Modi’s visit signals a broader, maturing Africa strategy: one rooted in mutual growth, sustainability, and geopolitical balance, potentially setting a model for India’s future African partnerships.
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