The story of India and Namibia’s friendship is one of solidarity against oppression. In 1946, as the world grappled with post-war realities, India boldly brought Namibia’s quest for freedom to the UN forefront, marking its place among early advocates. This commitment extended through Namibia’s arduous independence movement, nurturing bonds that blend history with strategy.
Namibia, a southern African gem covering 825,000 square kilometers with a population of about 3.1 million, brims with natural treasures. Its mineral deposits, energy reserves, and oceanic bounty make it an economic powerhouse in the region.
Post-1990 independence, diplomatic channels opened wide. The Indian High Commission in Windhoek drives forward political dialogue and cooperation. On international stages—UN, NAM, Commonwealth—India and Namibia stand shoulder-to-shoulder, amplifying each other’s voices.
Bilateral trade is booming. Namibia supplies India with uranium, minerals, diamonds, gemstones, metals like copper and zinc, marine products, petroleum, energy resources, machinery, and equipment. India exports pharmaceuticals, machinery, automobiles, rice (including non-basmati), wheat, lentils, spices, auto components, engineering products, and defense gear. Indian companies are deeply embedded in Namibia’s mining, energy, healthcare, and IT landscapes, fueling growth.
Yoga and Ayurveda form the heartbeat of cultural exchanges, while Indian heritage enjoys profound respect. The small Indian community remains dynamically involved in community life. Scholarships and educational programs bridge generations.
Prime Minister Modi’s conferment with the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis underscores the alliance’s depth. In an interconnected world, India-Namibia relations offer a model of enduring partnership, poised for expanded collaboration across sectors.