President John Dramani Mahama has called for stronger bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Zimbabwe, highlighting shared history, economic potential, and the need for deeper African integration.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting at the Peduase Lodge, President Mahama warmly welcomed his Zimbabwean counterpart and delegation, describing the visit as a reaffirmation of the enduring ties between the two nations.
“It is a great pleasure that I warmly welcome you and your distinguished delegation to Ghana and to the historic Peduase Lodge,” he said, noting that the facility, built under Kwame Nkrumah, remains “a powerful symbol of Pan-African vision and unity.”
The President emphasized that relations between Ghana and Zimbabwe go beyond diplomacy, rooted in a shared struggle for independence and a common commitment to African dignity and self-determination.
“Our relationship is enriched by strong historical and personal connections, including the legacy of Robert Mugabe, whose time in Ghana further cemented the closeness between our people,” he stated.
President Mahama highlighted existing frameworks such as the 2023 General Cooperation Agreement and the inaugural Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation as key platforms for advancing practical collaboration.
He stressed that the meeting comes at a crucial time as Africa pushes forward with the African Continental Free Trade Area, urging stronger intra-African trade and investment.
“As host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Ghana remains committed to promoting economic integration,” he said, adding that Ghana’s position in Economic Community of West African States and Zimbabwe’s role in Southern African Development Community present a unique opportunity to bridge West and Southern Africa.
Outlining priority areas, the President called for collaboration in mining, agriculture, and energy.
“In the mining sector, we must promote responsible practices and enhance value addition so that Africa retains a greater share of its natural resource wealth,” he said.
On agriculture, he noted that Zimbabwe’s expertise in irrigation and climate-smart farming could support Ghana’s efforts to modernize its agricultural sector and strengthen food security.
He also underscored the importance of cooperation in renewable energy and infrastructure to drive industrialisation.
Beyond economic sectors, President Mahama advocated for stronger ties in education, tourism, culture, and sports to deepen people-to-people connections.
He pointed to potential tourism collaboration linking Cape Coast Castle and Victoria Falls as a way to combine Ghana’s historical heritage with Zimbabwe’s natural attractions.
The President further emphasized the role of the private sector, calling for increased business-to-business engagements and improved connectivity, including the possibility of direct flights between Accra and Harare.
“We must actively encourage business engagements to unlock the full economic potential of our partnerships,” he said.
President Mahama expressed confidence that the discussions would help review progress, address challenges, and chart a forward-looking path for Ghana–Zimbabwe relations.
“I look forward to productive and fruitful deliberations that will further strengthen the bonds between our two countries and advance our shared vision for Africa’s development,” he concluded.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
