India would always rejoice in your success: PM Modi in Nairobi

Published By : Admin | July 11, 2016 | 18:11 IST
QuoteWhen it comes to nation building, or nurturing ties with friends like Kenya, my heart matches the youthful passion of any 20 year old: PM
QuoteToday, both Kenya & India are flourishing democracies. We are two developing nations that seek peace and prosperity for their peoples: PM
QuoteThe warm waters of Indian Ocean have served as the bridge between our people: PM in Nairobi
QuoteTogether, India and Africa represent a third of humanity: PM Narendra Modi
QuoteIndia's drive towards its destiny is fuelled by India's 800 million youth: PM Modi
Quote'Skill India' and 'Start Up' India are aimed at transforming the face of employment generation and personal enterprise in India: PM
QuoteM-pesa showed how, combined with technology, a home grown idea can quickly and effectively transform the lives of excluded sections: PM
QuoteYouth can also play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies: PM Modi

Dr Vijoo Rattansi, Chancellor of the University of Nairobi,
Prof Peter Mbithi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi,
Members of the University Senate,
Distinguished professors
Dear Students

Jambo! Habaari gaani (Hello, How are you)?

I am happy to be here in energy filled surroundings.

I am truly delighted to be amongst the brightest and the best of Kenya.

You are the pride of this land; and represent Africa's tomorrow. Your aspirations, ambitions and actions will not only shape the direction and destiny of this great country.

But, you will also guide the march of this great continent into a future of prosperity. To you, the passionate gen-next of Kenya, I bring the warm friendship of over 800 million youth of India.

Of course, that includes me.

You see friends, when it comes to nation building, or nurturing ties with friends like Kenya, my heart matches the youthful passion of any twenty year old.

Dear Students,

The University of Nairobi is a glorious institution. It enjoys a formidable reputation. Not just in Africa but all over the world.

And, when I see your young, eager and intelligent faces, I know why. Generations of political leaders, engineers scientists social activists and artists have passed through the doors of this seat of learning.

It has brought fame and repute to your country. And, it continues to mould Kenya's coming generations too. The University also showcases the shared history and similar experiences of India and Kenya as two developing countries.

Just now, before entering this auditorium, I paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, whose statue at this University was unveiled exactly 60 years ago. The connection between Mahatma Gandhi and this fine University is among early bonds of partnership between our two great nations.

It also echoes the value that our two societies place in having a strong education system for our national growth.

We have an ancient Indian saying:

व्याये क्राते इवा नित्यं, विद्या धनं सर्व धन प्रधानम.

Means: the wealth that increases by giving, that wealth is knowledge and is supreme among all possessions.

I am told you also have a Swahili proverb:

"Pesa, kama matumizi yake, huisha; kujifunza, kama matumizi yake, huongezeka”,

That is, money if you use it, comes to an end; But, learning if you use it, increases.

Friends,

Kenya is a young nation in an ancient continent. But, even as a young nation you pride in several firsts.

Kenya’s Wangari Maathai, the famous environmental activist, was the first African woman to win the Nobel peace prize.

She was a product of this university.

Lupita Nyongo of Kenyan origin is the first African to have won an Oscar award.

And, as we all know, and no prize for guessing here, that Kenyan runners lead and dominate the marathon races the world over.

Kenya's climate nurtures not just the Big Five. But, it also provides the right eco-system for appropriate technology and innovation led growth.

It is an important financial and transportation hub in the East African region. It was in Kenya that M-Pesa was invented in 2007.

The idea took the world by storm. It pioneered and led the growth of mobile money services globally.

Not just in Kenya, but the world over. And, through M-pesa, those who stayed on the margins of financial system are now being empowered and mainstreamed.

We now have a version in India as well.

Dear Students,

Today, both Kenya and India are flourishing democracies. We are two developing nations that seek peace and prosperity for their peoples.

And, our ties are age old.

Through centuries, the links of commerce and culture, trade and tradition, ideas and ideals, and beliefs and values have connected our societies.

And, in this, the warm waters of Indian Ocean have served as the bridge between our people.

I understand that there are 42 tribes in Kenya and that people of Indian origin are called the forty third tribe.

Like the rich fabric of your society, India too has a long-standing tradition of celebrating its vibrant diversity.

Indeed, along with democracy, freedom and equality, it is the very essence of modern India.

Friends,

Last evening, President Kenyatta and I had a memorable interaction with the Indian diaspora. Many decades ago, they made Kenya their home.

Their affection and loyalty to Kenya is foremost. They are one of the most effective catalysts in the forward march of our ties.

And, this close inter-mingling of our people is a strong foundation for us to realize the promise of our modern day partnership.

Friends,

Let us also not forget that together, India and Africa represent a third of humanity. Contrary to what others might say, and there are many who might want to pull us down, we are by no means a minority in this inter-connected world.

We want to forge a lasting partnership:

· That does not rely on old models and rules of engagement;
· One, which focuses on and empowers people;
· One, where we share the fruits of each others' economic prosperity;
· One, which seizes the opportunities of twenty first century;
· And, also responds to its challenges to bring safety and security to our societies; and
· Above all, serves the larger common good of the region and other developing nations the world over.

And, our partnership with Kenya is an integral part of this vision of the twenty first century engagement with all of Africa.

Friends,

Among the rising African economies, Kenya has been one of the strongest performers.

You are a land of strong traditions.

You are also a country with abundant opportunities.

On the other side of the Indian Ocean, at about 7.6% per annum, India is experiencing a great economic revolution.

Given the depth and extent of our challenges, there is no option for both of us but to sustain the high economic growth rate.

This opens up a world of opportunities for us to work together. Not just in political sphere, but also in economic, social and developmental fields.

And, at several levels.

Already, we trade with each other more than ever before. With significant presence of Indian companies in Kenya, our investment partnership is robust, diverse and vibrant.

This, in turn, creates jobs for the young and educated in both our societies. As flow of goods and capital between us increases, we must explore ways of working together to manufacture in different areas.

Not just for Kenya and India but for Africa, and other regions.

Health care is one area that immediately comes to mind.

India's experiences in this field can help build systems, institutions and capacities in Kenya. And, our engagement in specialized medical skills can be of particular purpose and importance to Kenya's youth.

Our growing trade ties in pharmaceuticals can be supplemented by manufacturing links. They can respond to the health needs in Kenya.

And, also meet the health care demands regionally. Kenya's future is in the hands of its youth.

Similarly, you may be interested to know that India's drive towards its destiny is also fuelled by India's 800 million youth.

And for them, we have undertaken a nationwide campaign to create 500 million new jobs by 2022.

This, of course is not possible without skilling and educating our youth at a scale not seen before.

'Skill India' and 'Start Up' India are aimed at transforming the face of employment generation and personal enterprise in India.

We would be happy to share our capacities, experiences and abilities for the benefit of our Kenyan friends.

We already have a robust cooperation in the field of institution and capacity building, especially in the field of education.

But, that is not enough.

The need of the hour is to diversify it to areas such as Telecom, agriculture, energy and Information Technology.

Areas that would not just propel and modernize our economies, but, also create jobs for our skilled youth.

Our shared developmental challenges do not face the problem of scale.

And, between us we have the ability to generate access to cost efficient technologies.

M-pesa showed how, combined with technology, a home grown idea can quickly and effectively transform the lives of excluded sections of our society.

As our economies grow and our partnership thrives, we have a responsibility to ensure that it is not heavy handed on environment.

Indeed, one of our shared values is respect for mother earth.

And, the Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai captured it beautifully.

She said, and I quote, "We need to promote development that does not destroy our environment."

Our common tradition to live in harmony with nature is an ideal platform for us to build a partnership for "Green Africa."

A partnership that would also create new economic opportunities.

In fact, protection of our environment is the prime driver for India to shape an International Solar Alliance.

It is aimed at harnessing the power of sun as a permanent renewable source of energy.

The Alliance, which currently enjoys partnership of over 120 countries, is also one of the emerging areas of our engagement with Kenya.

Similarly, India’s ancient heritage of yoga stands for holistic living that is in tune with nature.

I am delighted to know that over 7,000 yoga enthusiasts celebrated this International Yoga Day on 19 June in the grounds of the Nairobi University.

Friends,

A steady march towards our economic goals is indeed a priority.

But, we also cannot ignore the safety of our people.

Our economic prosperity and social development would mean a lot more, if our societies were safe and our people secure.

As President Uhuru said in Delhi in October last year, terrorism is "an evil that knows no boundary, has no religion, no race and no values."

Indeed, we live in a world where preachers of hate and violence are threatening the fabric of our society.

As young dynamic citizens of Kenya and as members of the African society, you would need to be watchful of those who spread radical ideologies.

And, be equally condemning of those who give shelter to terrorists and use them as political instruments.

Youth can also play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies.

Students,

As two maritime trading nations, and as members of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, we also need to stand guard against sea borne threats.

And, ensure that piracy does not threaten our trade and safety of our seafarers, and there is freedom of navigation for all.

On way to Kenya, I had also visited Mozambique, South Africa and Tanzania.

Over millennia, the East Coast of Africa has had strong maritime links with India.

Today, the same eastern coast is facing a complex set of strategic and security challenges.

The entire domain of maritime and coastal security is therefore mature for deeper engagement between our two countries.

Dear Students,

This is the age of inter-dependence;

In this world of growing opportunities and complex challenges, you would inherit its tomorrow.

And, shape the future of this great country.

A safe and prosperous Kenya and strong Africa is your destiny.

Let no one take it away from you.

And, as you pursue your ambitions, you would do well to remember that nation building is an unending process.

As such, let you actions guide and lead others to:

· aspire high;
· dream big; and
· do more.

Your motto says it all "Unitat et Labore”; work hard and in unity, the fruits of the labour will be yours.

And, as you march towards your destiny, you will find in India a trusted and reliable partner.

A partner:

· who would rejoice in your success;.

· who would always be there with a helping hand.

· And, who would be on your side in your hour of need.

It has been a privilege speaking to you.

I am grateful to the University of Nairobi, its faculty and most of all you the future of Kenya, its students, for this opportunity.

Asante sana, Dhanyavaad.

Thank you very much.

 

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India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey: PM Modi in Parliament of Ghana
July 03, 2025

The Right Honourable Speaker,

Leadership of the House,

Honourable Members of Parliament,

Members of the Council of State,

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Representatives of Political Parties,

The Ga Maan Tasse,

Independent Constitutional bodies,

Civil Society Organizations,

The Indian Community in Ghana,

Maachhhe !

Good morning!

I am deeply honoured to address this esteemed House today.

It is a privilege to be in Ghana - a land that radiates the spirit of democracy, dignity, and resilience. As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians.

Ghana is known as the land of gold, not just for what lies under your soil, but as much for the warmth and strength in your hearts. When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that shines with courage that rises above history that meets every challenge with dignity and grace. Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent.

Friends,

Last evening was a deeply moving experience. Receiving your national award from my dear friend, President Mahama, is an honour. I will always cherish it.

इस सम्मान के लिए में 140 करोड़ भारतीयों की तरफ से घाना के लोगों का आभार व्यक्त करता हूँ।

On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I thank the people of Ghana for this honour. I dedicate it to the enduring friendship and shared values that bind India and Ghana.

|

Distinguished members,

Earlier today, I had the honour of paying tribute to a visionary statesman, and beloved son of Ghana Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

He once said,

"The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the super-imposed influences that keep us apart.”

His words continue to guide our shared journey. His vision was a democratic Republic, built on strong institutions. True democracy promotes discussion and debate. It unites people. It supports dignity and promotes human rights. Democratic values may take time to grow. But it is our responsibility to preserve and nurture them.

Friends,

India is the mother of Democracy.

हमारे लिए लोकतंत्र एक system नहीं, एक संस्कार है
हजारों वर्षों से लोकतंत्र ने भारतीय समाज को निरंतर गति दी है

For us, democracy is not merely a system. It is a part of our fundamental values. From thousands of years ago, we have examples of centers like Vaishali. The Rig Veda, one of the world’s oldest scriptures, says:

आनो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः

It means, let good thoughts come to us from all directions.

This openness to ideas is the core of democracy. India has over two thousand five hundred political parties. I repeat, two thousand five hundred political parties. Twenty different parties governing different states, twenty-two official languages, thousands of dialects.

This is also the reason that people who came to India have always been welcomed with open hearts. The same spirit helps Indians integrate easily wherever they go. Even in Ghana, they have blended into society, just like sugar in tea.

Distinguished Members,

The histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule. But our spirits have always remained free and fearless. We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage. We take pride in our social, cultural and linguistic diversity.

We built nations rooted in freedom, unity, and dignity. Our relationship knows no bounds. And with your permission, may I say, our friendship is sweeter than your famous ‘Sugarloaf’ pineapple. With President Mahama, we have decided to elevate our ties to a comprehensive partnership.

|

Friends,

The world order created after the Second World War is changing fast. The revolution in technology, the rise of the Global South, and the shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale. The challenges such as colonial rule that humanity has faced in the earlier centuries, still persist in different forms.

The world is also facing new and complex crises such as climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and cybersecurity. Institutions created in the last century are struggling to respond. The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance.

Progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South. We need more than slogans. We need action. That is why, during India’s G20 Presidency, we worked with the vision - One Earth, One Family, One Future.

We put emphasis on Africa’s rightful place at the global high table. We are proud that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during our Presidency.

Friends,

For India, our philosophy is - Humanity First.

We believe in :

सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः ,
सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु ,
मा किश्चत दुःखभाग्भवेत्॥

It means,

"May all be happy,
May all be free from illness,
May all see what is auspicious ,
May no one suffer in any way.”

This philosophy embodies India’s approach to the world. It guided our actions during the COVID pandemic. We shared vaccines and medicines with over 150 countries, including our friends in Ghana.

We launched Mission LiFE - Lifestyle For Environment, to address climate change and promote sustainable living. This inclusive spirit powers our global initiatives like:

One World, One Sun, One Grid;

One World One Health; for a healthier planet;

International Solar Alliance; to encourage solar energy and sustainability;

International Big Cats Alliance; to protect wildlife;

and the Global Biofuels Alliance; to advance clean biofuels and cut carbon emissions.

I am glad that Ghana, as a founding member, will host the African Regional Meeting for the International Solar Alliance this September. This demonstrates our shared belief that the world is one family.

Distinguished members,

Over the past decade, India has seen a major transformation. The people of India have reposed their faith in peace, security, and development. Last year, they re-elected the same government for the third consecutive time. Something, that happened after more than six decades.

Today, India is the fastest growing emerging economy. On the foundations of stable polity and good governance, India will soon be the third largest economy.

We already contribute nearly 16% to global growth. Our demography is paying its dividend. India now has the world’s third largest start -up ecosystem. India is an innovation and technology hub, where global companies want to converge.

We are recognised as the Pharmacy of the world. Indian women today lead in science, space, aviation and sports. India landed on the Moon. And, today an Indian is in orbit giving wings to our human space flight mission.

कितना सुखद संयोग है कि, भारत के कई गौरव भरे क्षणों में, अफ्रीका जुड़ा हुआ है। जब भारत के चंद्रयान ने, चाँद के साउथ pole पर लैंड कया, तो उस दिन भी मैं अफ्रीका में था। और आज , जब एक भारतीय एस्ट्रोनॉट, मानवता के उज्ज्वल भविष्य के लिए , space स्टेशन में experiments कर रहा है , मैं एक बार फिर अफ्रीका मैं हूँ ।

Africa has been connected to many of India’s proudest moments in space. When India’s Chandrayaan landed on the Moon’s South Pole, I was in Africa. And today, as an Indian astronaut conducts experiments onboard Space Station for the welfare of humanity — I am once again in Africa.

This is no ordinary coincidence. It reflects the deep bond we share, our common aspirations, and our shared future. Our development is inclusive. Our growth touches the lives of every Indian.

The people of India have resolved to make India a Developed Nation by 2047, when we celebrate 100 years of Independence. As Ghana continues to pursue the path of progress and prosperity, India shall walk with you, shoulder to shoulder, on this road.

|

Friends,

आज ग्लोबल उठा-पटक, हर कसी के लिए चिंता का कारण है। ऐसे में, भारत का लोकतंत्र, आशा की किरण बना हुआ हैं । उसी प्रकार, भारत की विकास यात्रा, ग्लोबल ग्रोथ को गति देने वाली है। विश्व का सबसे बड़ा लोकतंत्र , एक ऐसा स्तंभ है , जो जितना मज़बूत होगा, दुनिया को उतना ही सशक्त बनाएगा। वैश्विक स्थिरता बढ़ाने में योगदान करेगा।

In these times of global uncertainty, India's democratic stability shines as a ray of hope. India’s rapid progress is a catalyst for global growth. As the world’s largest democracy, India is a pillar of strength for the world. A strong India, will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world. After all, our mantra is:

सबका साथ, सबका विकास, सबका विश्वास, सबका प्रयास

It means "Together, for everyone’s growth with everyone’s trust and effort.”

India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey. We support Africa's Development Framework, Agenda 2063, to secure a bright and sustainable future for its people.

Africa’s goals are our priorities. Our approach is to grow together as equals. Our development partnership with Africa is demand-driven. It is focussed on building local capacities and creating local opportunities. Our objective is not just to invest, but to empower. To help develop self-sustaining eco-systems.

It is my honour to give further momentum to this partnership. In 2015, we hosted the India-Africa Summit. President Mahama was one of our esteemed Guests. In 2017, India hosted the annual meeting of the African Development Bank. We have expanded our diplomatic presence to 46 countries across Africa.

Over 200 projects across the continent enhance connectivity, infrastructure and Industrial capacity. Every year, our India-Africa Business conclave generates new opportunities.

In Ghana, we inaugurated the Tema – Mpakadan rail line last year. It is the largest infrastructure project in this part of the African region. We welcome Ghana’s own efforts to accelerate economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Ghana also holds great potential to become an IT and innovation hub in the region. Together, we will shape a future, full of promise and progress.

Distinguished Members,

Free and fair elections are the soul of any democracy. It is encouraging to see our Electoral Commissions working closely together. I am confident that India’s Election Commission will be honoured to share its experiences in conducting the world’s largest elections with full trust and transparency.

Parliamentary exchanges are also a cornerstone of the relationship between our two democracies. I recall the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Meeting held in Accra in 2023. It welcomed the largest Indian Parliamentary delegation to Ghana, including state legislatures in India. We deeply value such vibrant dialogue.

I welcome the establishment of Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society in your Parliament. I propose to further reinforce our Parliamentary ties. I invite you to visit the new Parliament of India. You will be able to see the bold steps we have taken to reserve one-third of seats in the Indian Parliament and State Assemblies for women.

You can witness the debate and discussions that are the hallmark of Indian democracy. I assure you, they are as spirited and passionate as the game of your beloved-Black Stars!

Friends,

India and Ghana share a dream. A dream where every child gets opportunities. Where every voice is heard. Where nations rise together, not apart.

Dr Nkrumah had said, and I quote: "I am not African because I was born in Africa. But because Africa was born in me.”

In the same way, India carries Africa in its heart. Let us build a partnership not only for today, but for generations to come.

Thank you.

मेदा - मुआसे !