President Droupadi Murmu’s landmark tour strengthens India’s energy, mineral, wildlife, healthcare, trade and cultural partnerships with Angola and Botswana, boosting Africa ties.
President Droupadi Murmu returned to India after completing a landmark six-day State Visit to Angola and Botswana, marking the first time in history that an Indian President has visited both nations. The tour, held from 8 to 13 November 2025, strengthened collaboration in energy, minerals, wildlife conservation, healthcare, trade, technology and people-to-people ties across the African continent.
India and Angola Deepen Partnership
President Murmu began her visit in Luanda, where she held high-level talks with Angolan President João Lourenço. Discussions focused on expanding India’s presence in oil, natural gas, refining and exploration, with Indian companies expressing interest in securing long-term energy arrangements.
New areas of cooperation, including critical minerals, infrastructure, trade and capacity-building, were also explored. The two nations signed key MoUs covering:
- Fisheries, aquaculture and marine resources
- Consular cooperation and administrative coordination
- Developmental and economic exchanges
- Angola affirmed its plans to join two major Indian-led global initiatives:
- International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
- Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)
President Murmu addressed the Angolan Parliament, highlighting 50 years of Angola’s independence and reaffirming India’s commitment to Africa’s progress and South-South cooperation.
Botswana Announces Translocation of Eight Cheetahs to India
During the Botswana leg of the trip, President Murmu received a ceremonial welcome in Gaborone and held bilateral meetings with President Duma Gideon Boko.
Talks covered a wide range of cooperation areas, including:
- Agriculture and food security
- Renewable energy
- Digital technologies
- Diamond industry collaboration
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
- Skills and capacity development
A major outcome was Botswana’s official announcement to transfer eight cheetahs to India under Project Cheetah, further strengthening global wildlife and environmental partnerships.
The governments also signed an agreement enabling the supply of affordable Indian medicines to Botswana, expanding India’s role in African healthcare access.
Indian Diaspora Recognised as “Cultural Ambassadors”
President Murmu addressed the vibrant Indian community in Botswana and praised their contribution to the country’s growth. She called the diaspora “cultural ambassadors of India”, acknowledging their role in deepening cultural understanding and bilateral goodwill.
Botswana’s President described India as the “mother of democracy”, recognising India’s leadership, global outreach and long-standing support for African development.
Strengthening India–Africa Engagement for the Future
The visit reinforced India’s long-term vision for Africa, with significant progress made in:
- Energy security and mineral partnerships
- Wildlife and environmental cooperation
- Trade and investment expansion
- Pharmaceutical and healthcare access
- Digital transformation and technology exchange
- Diaspora engagement and cultural ties
As President Murmu returned to New Delhi, the visits to Angola and Botswana established a stronger foundation for India–Africa cooperation, advancing economic growth, environmental conservation, and shared development priorities across the Global South.
FAQs
- Why was President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Angola and Botswana historic?
It was the first-ever State Visit by an Indian President to both nations, marking a major milestone in India–Africa diplomacy.
- What were the major achievements during the Angola visit?
India advanced cooperation in energy, oil and gas, critical minerals, marine resources and consular matters, while Angola agreed to join IBCA and GBA.
- Why is Botswana transferring eight cheetahs to India?
The translocation supports Project Cheetah, helps restore cheetah populations in India and strengthens conservation cooperation between both countries.
- What role did the Indian diaspora play during President Murmu’s visit?
President Murmu praised them as “cultural ambassadors”, recognising their contribution to Botswana’s economy and India–Africa friendship.
- How does this visit benefit India’s long-term strategic interests?
It strengthens energy security, opens access to critical minerals, expands trade, boosts wildlife initiatives and deepens ties with Africa in key sectors.
