Accra, Ghana: In a historic diplomatic milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, the West African nation’s highest civilian honour, during his landmark visit to the country on Wednesday.
The prestigious award was bestowed in recognition of Modi’s efforts to strengthen India-Ghana relations and India’s growing partnership with the Global South. The Indian Prime Minister described the honour not just as a symbol of friendship, but a “responsibility” to keep advancing the shared aspirations of both nations.
In a heartfelt post on social media platform X, Modi wrote:
“I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ upon me. This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity, and the historical ties between India and Ghana.
This honour is also a responsibility; to keep working towards stronger India-Ghana friendship. India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner.”
I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ upon me. This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana.
This… pic.twitter.com/coqwU04RZi
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 2, 2025
Grand Welcome in Accra
Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived in Accra, the capital of Ghana, to a ceremonial welcome led personally by President John Dramani Mahama — a rare diplomatic gesture that underscored the importance of the visit. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades, highlighting New Delhi’s intent to re-engage deeply with Africa.
Landed in Accra, Ghana. I’m honoured by the special gesture of President John Dramani Mahama for welcoming me at the airport. Our nations look forward to working together to strengthen our long-standing relationship and explore fresh avenues for collaboration. 🇮🇳🇬🇭@JDMahama pic.twitter.com/HDONiVt7tr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 2, 2025
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
Modi’s visit is seen as a significant step in expanding India’s engagement across Africa, aligning with its broader vision for a more inclusive Global South. To cement this vision, several key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, covering culture, standards, traditional medicine, and diplomatic cooperation.
Gladdened by the incredible warmth shown by the Indian community here in Accra, Ghana. The spirit of togetherness and the deep cultural linkages are truly wonderful. pic.twitter.com/xCVgjgCxKc
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 2, 2025
Key MoUs Signed:
- Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) – To foster mutual appreciation through collaborations in art, music, dance, literature, and heritage.
- BIS–GSA Agreement – Partnership between the Bureau of Indian Standards and Ghana Standards Authority to enhance cooperation in standardization, certification, and conformity assessment.
- Traditional Medicine Collaboration – MoU between Ghana’s Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine (ITAM) and India’s Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) for joint education, training, and research.
- Institutionalizing Bilateral Dialogue – Establishment of a Joint Commission Meeting mechanism to regularly review and guide bilateral cooperation at a high level.
Strengthening the Global South
Modi’s Ghana leg is part of a broader five-nation diplomatic tour, focused on strengthening South-South cooperation and building resilient partnerships across key sectors, including health, trade, infrastructure, and youth development.
