PM Modi conferred Namibia Highest Civilian Award during his official visit on July 9, 2025. The prestigious award i.e., The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis was awarded in recognition of his role in strengthening South-South cooperation, India’s support for Namibia’s development, and commitments to democracy and sustainable development.

This recognition not only shows the growing bilateral ties between the countries. It also holds relevance for UPSC aspirants as it highlights India’s expanding global diplomacy and Africa policy. Questions related to bilateral awards, India’s foreign policy outreach in Africa, and India’s role in multilateral forums appear in UPSC Prelims and Mains (GS Paper II).

PM Modi Conferred with Namibia’s Highest Civilian Award

Prime Minister Modi received Namibia highest civilian award and it reflects how India is seen as a trusted development partner and a global voice from the Global South. 

The award isn’t about diplomatic formality but it shows Namibia’s appreciation for India’s consistent support, whether it’s through education, healthcare, or conservation efforts like Project Cheetah. Here are some facts about PM Modi and Namibia Civilian Honour: 

Also Read: PM Modi Strengthens Ties, Receives Brazil’s Highest Civilian Award

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PM Modi Visit to Namibia 2025

PM Modi’s visit to Namibia in July 2025 is a part of his multi-nation African tour and focused on building stronger ties in areas like energy, education, digital technology, and wildlife conservation.

Both countries looked at ways to work together in sectors where India’s experience could support Namibia’s development. During the visit, bilateral talks were held with President Nangolo Mbumba. Both leaders discussed:

• Expanding collaboration in critical minerals and green energy
  
• Improving academic and skill development exchanges
  
• Partnering on wildlife and cheetah conservation under Project Cheetah

This visit follows PM Modi’s consistent efforts to prioritize Africa in India’s foreign policy. 

The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis

The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis is Namibia’s highest civilian honour and symbolizes resilience, endurance, and uniqueness. Some of the key features of the award are:

• This award is reserved for heads of state and distinguished global leaders
  
• It reflects Namibia’s recognition of contributions to peace, partnership, and development
  
• This award is symbolic of mutual respect and collaboration between the honoree’s nation and Namibia

PM Modi became the first Indian leader to receive this honour and joined a select group of global statespersons acknowledged by the Namibian government.

India Namibia Relations

India and Namibia share a relationship marked by mutual support during Namibia’s independence struggle and cooperation in multilateral forums. Here are some instances of India-Namibia Relations:

• The diplomatic ties established in 1990 (post-Namibia’s independence)
  
• India was among the first countries to support Namibia’s freedom movement
  
• Line of credit and development projects in education, technology, and healthcare
  
• Collaboration under Project Cheetah, with India importing cheetahs from Namibia for biodiversity conservation.

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Both the countries explored expanding cooperation in rare earth minerals, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and maritime security.

Namibia’s location and availability of resources make it a partner for India’s Africa outreach and energy diversification strategy.

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