Why Did PM Modi Honor Kwame Nkrumah in Ghana?

Accra, July 3 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday visited the Nkrumah Memorial Park in Ghana's capital, Accra, to pay his respects to Kwame Nkrumah, the country's founding President and a celebrated figure in the African independence movement.

Accompanied by Ghana's Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, PM Modi laid a floral wreath and observed a moment of silence to honor Nkrumah’s significant contributions to freedom, unity, and social justice.

“In Accra, I paid homage to Kwame Nkrumah, a visionary leader whose thoughts continue to inspire many. He dedicated his life to the welfare of the Ghanaian people,” PM Modi shared on X.

This tribute from PM Modi signifies India's profound respect for Ghana's vibrant history and reinforces the strong ties of friendship and collaboration between the two nations.

Nkrumah was a pivotal Ghanaian nationalist who spearheaded Ghana's (formerly Gold Coast) quest for independence from Britain and oversaw its transition into a sovereign nation. He led the country from its independence in 1957 until 1966 and was instrumental in forging diplomatic relations with India.

The relationship between India and Ghana remains warm and amicable, built on shared values and mutual goals. India established its representative office in Accra in 1953, well before Ghana’s independence, and formalized diplomatic relations in 1957, immediately following Ghana's liberation.

During his landmark address to the Ghanaian Parliament, PM Modi quoted Nkrumah's words: “I am not African because I was born in Africa. But because Africa was born in me,” affirming that, similarly, India holds Africa close to its heart.

“India and Ghana share a vision—a vision where every child has opportunities, every voice is acknowledged, and nations thrive together. Let us cultivate a partnership not just for today, but for future generations,” the Prime Minister declared.

In his speech, PM Modi reflected on the shared histories of India and Ghana, both marked by the legacy of colonialism.

“Yet, our spirits have always remained unshackled and bold. We draw strength from our rich heritage and take pride in our diverse cultures and languages. We have built nations anchored in freedom, unity, and dignity. Our bond knows no limits,” he emphasized.

This State Visit marked PM Modi's inaugural bilateral journey to Ghana and was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in three decades.

After wrapping up this momentous visit to Ghana, the Prime Minister has departed for Trinidad and Tobago, the next destination on his five-country tour.