Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Namibia this week

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Namibia, finalizing his five-nation African tour. India aims to secure critical minerals like uranium, lithium, and cobalt for energy and technology needs.

Bilateral trade between India and Namibia stood at approximately $814 million in 2023–24, with Indian exports accounting for more than half. Indian investments in Namibia are estimated at nearly $800 million, primarily in the mining sector, including zinc and diamonds.

According to The Times of India, Modi’s visit could also pave the way for more direct engagement in the diamond sector. Namibia, home to the world’s richest marine diamond deposits estimated at over 80 million carats, does not currently sell rough diamonds directly to India. Instead, these gems are routed through global trade hubs like London and Antwerp before reaching Indian markets. A shift in this trade dynamic could significantly benefit India’s diamond industry.

India’s outreach to Namibia comes amid a broader geopolitical recalibration, with major powers competing for influence in resource-rich African states.