In Namibia, India shows a new way to engage Africa , Pg6

Key Highlights:

• PM Modi addressed Namibia's National Assembly in July, using local cultural references.
• India is pursuing an adaptive approach to engage with African states, focusing on alignment.
• India-Namibia bilateral trade is at $800 million, supported by a $12 billion development partnership across Africa.
• Namibia adopted India's UPI, becoming the first African country to do so.
• An Indian head of government visited Namibia for the first time in nearly three decades.

Detailed Insights:

• India's approach involves evoking shared anti-colonial history, pragmatic cooperation, and future-oriented ties.
• New Delhi hosted the South West Africa People’s Organization’s first diplomatic office during Namibia’s liberation.
• Lt. General Diwan Prem Chand, an Indian officer, commanded UN peacekeeping forces during Namibia's transition to independence.
• India is investing in capacity-building, including the India-Namibia Centre of Excellence in IT.
• Namibia's political stability, mineral resources, and technological base provide a strong foundation for India's engagement.
• President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah advocates for reforming global economic systems, aligning with India's vision.
• The recent visit resulted in MOUs on entrepreneurship and health, plus Namibia joining the Global Biofuels Alliance.
• A major agreement on Namibia’s critical mineral reserves, particularly uranium, was notably absent.
• The upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit is an opportunity to solidify diplomatic efforts through institutional cooperation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• UPI (Unified Payments Interface): A real-time payment system that facilitates instant fund transfers between bank accounts.
• Global South: A term referring to countries often facing socio-economic and political challenges.
• Capacity-building: The process of strengthening the abilities of individuals and organizations to perform functions effectively.