Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Ghana’s national honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by President John Dramani Mahama. The award recognises Modi’s distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership, according to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
During the ceremony at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, PM Modi accepted the award on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. He dedicated the honour to the aspirations of India’s youth, the country’s cultural richness and diversity, and the enduring friendship between Ghana and India.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
PM Modi emphasised that the award deepens the India-Ghana relationship and places new responsibility on him to further advance bilateral cooperation. He expressed confidence that his historic State Visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over 30 years—would energise ties between the two countries.
He also thanked the people and government of Ghana for their warm gesture and reaffirmed the commitment to shared democratic values and traditions that continue to nurture the India-Ghana partnership.
Skill Development and Agricultural Support
As part of India’s growing partnership with Ghana, PM Modi announced the establishment of a Skill Development Centre in Ghana aimed at providing vocational education and enhancing youth employability.
He also pledged India’s support for Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme in the agricultural sector and offered cooperation in vaccine production and affordable healthcare through India’s Jan Aushadhi scheme.
Education, Defence, and Digital Collaboration
India will double the number of ITEC and ICCR scholarships provided to Ghanaian students, furthering educational collaboration. Defence cooperation and joint efforts in digital payments were also discussed. PM Modi proposed the introduction of Bharat UPI in Ghana to enhance digital financial connectivity.
Plans to Double Trade
India aims to double its trade volume with Ghana within the next five years. PM Modi stressed that India’s engagement with Ghana is part of its broader commitment to strengthening ties with Africa and the Global South.
President Mahama Welcomes Strengthening Ties
President John Mahama welcomed Prime Minister Modi and praised the visit as a continuation of the strong historical ties between the two nations. He cited the legacies of Ghana’s first President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and India’s former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru as foundational to the relationship.
President Mahama said the visit would help grow the already strong bonds of friendship and cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.
