PM Modi Gets Namibia’s Highest Civilian Award: A Big Moment for India-Africa Friendship

On July 9, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a very special award during his visit to Namibia, a country in southern Africa. He was honoured with the “Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis”, which is the highest civilian award Namibia gives to a foreign leader. What made it even more special? Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister ever to receive it!

What’s This Award All About?

Why It's Named “Welwitschia Mirabilis”

This award is named after a plant called Welwitschia Mirabilis — a desert plant found only in Namibia. What makes it so unique?

• It lives for over 1,000 years

• It survives in tough, dry conditions

• It stands for strength, survival, and long-lasting relationships

That’s why the award is the perfect symbol of the strong and growing bond between India and Namibia.

Modi’s First Visit to Namibia

This was Modi’s first-ever official visit to Namibia — and it was truly grand!

• He received a 21-gun salute

• Was welcomed with military honors

• And he even addressed the Namibian Parliament

During the ceremony, Namibia’s President presented him with the award in a warm and proud moment.

India and Namibia: Working Together

India and Namibia used this visit to strengthen their friendship even more. They signed 4 important agreements to work together in areas like:

1. Digital technology

2. Healthcare and medicines

3. Clean energy and biofuels

4. Entrepreneurship and skill-building

Both countries are now teaming up to grow together and help each other in meaningful ways.

Remember the Cheetahs?

Namibia also helped India bring back cheetahs as part of Project Cheetah, which aims to reintroduce these beautiful animals into Indian wildlife. This shows how both countries are also working together to protect the environment and wildlife.

Plus, Namibia is rich in minerals like lithium and uranium, which are very useful for making batteries, clean energy tech, and more — so there are more opportunities for India to work with Namibia in these areas too.

Why This Award Matters

This award is more than a medal — it’s a sign of:

• India's rising respect around the world

• Modi’s growing global influence

• Stronger partnerships with African nations

Modi said he accepted this award on behalf of every Indian citizen — a proud moment for the whole country!

Modi’s Long List of Awards

This is actually the 27th international award Modi has received as Prime Minister. He has been honoured by many countries including:

• France

• UAE

• Maldives

• Bhutan

• Brazil

• Ghana

• Russia

• Egypt

It shows how leaders around the world are recognizing India’s role as a strong and trustworthy partner.

Final Thoughts

This award shows how far India has come on the global stage. It’s not just about politics — it’s about partnerships, respect, and shared values. From cheetahs to digital payments, India and Namibia are building a bond that could inspire other nations too.

This isn’t just a big moment for Modi — it’s a proud moment for every Indian.