In a moment of historic diplomatic significance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the Parliament of Ghana, where he dedicated the country’s highest civilian honour — “The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana” — to the long-standing friendship and shared values between India and Ghana.
The award was conferred upon Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday by Ghanaian President John Mahama, in recognition of the growing partnership between the two countries and PM Modi’s contributions to strengthening global South cooperation.
This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades, underscoring India’s intent to deepen its ties with Africa and the broader Global South.
Expressing his gratitude during his address to the Ghanaian Parliament, PM Modi said, “It was a moving experience. Receiving your national award from my dear friend, President Mahama, is an honour.
I will always cherish this. On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I thank the people of Ghana for the award. I dedicate it to the enduring friendship and shared values between India and Ghana.”
He described the honour as a matter of “immense pride,” not just for himself, but for all Indians, reflecting the strength and depth of India-Ghana relations.
Ghana — A Symbol of Democracy and Inspiration
Addressing Ghana’s lawmakers and leaders, the Prime Minister celebrated the West African nation’s commitment to democratic ideals and social resilience, and commended it as a role model for the continent.
He remarked, “It is a privilege to be in Ghana, a land that radiates the spirit of democracy, dignity and resilience. As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians.”
The Prime Minister also spoke of the strong cultural and historical linkages that bind the two nations and applauded Ghana not just for its mineral wealth but for the strength and unity of its people.
In his words, “Ghana is known as the land of gold, not just for what lies under your soil but as much for the warmth and strength in your heart.
When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that stands with courage that rises above history, that meets every challenge with dignity and grace.
Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent.”
Tribute to Ghana’s Founding Father, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi visited the Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, where he paid homage to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President and an iconic figure in the African independence movement.
Reflecting on the visionary leader’s legacy, Modi said, ‘I had the honour of paying tribute to our visionary and statesman and the beloved son of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
He once said that the forces that unite us are greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart. His words continue to guide our shared journey…”
Accompanied by Ghana’s Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Prime Minister laid a floral wreath at the memorial and observed a moment of silence, honouring Dr. Nkrumah’s lifelong dedication to freedom, unity, and justice.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties in a Historic Visit
Ghana marks the first stop in Prime Minister Modi’s five-nation tour scheduled from July 2 to July 9, which also includes Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.
This tour aims to strengthen India’s strategic and economic engagement with key nations in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
PM Modi’s Ghana visit, the first by an Indian head of government in over 30 years, reflects New Delhi’s renewed diplomatic outreach and its commitment to building robust South-South cooperation.
The visit is expected to deepen trade, cultural, and development ties and enhance India’s visibility in Africa’s political and economic narrative.
By dedicating Ghana’s highest civilian award to the people of both nations, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between India and Ghana, built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and aspirations for inclusive growth.
