The Governments of Ghana and Zimbabwe have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, following a successful state visit by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to Ghana from April 1 to 3, 2026.
The visit, undertaken at the invitation of President John Dramani Mahama, focused on expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, including energy, trade, tourism, agriculture, mining, education, health, and security.
According to a communiqué delivered by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa underscore the importance both nations attach to the partnership.
“The state visit was aimed at further strengthening the cordial bilateral relations between the two countries,” the communiqué stated, highlighting key areas such as diplomatic training, defence and police cooperation, labour, sports, heritage, and waste management.
Both leaders stressed the need to enhance economic cooperation and build a more dynamic partnership driven by trade, investment, and private sector collaboration.
“They emphasized the need to elevate bilateral relations by fostering a more dynamic and mutually beneficial economic partnership,” the statement noted.
The two countries also welcomed the outcomes of a Business Roundtable Forum held during the visit, which demonstrated strong private sector interest in deepening trade and investment linkages.
“They expressed confidence in the tangible partnerships and initiatives that would emerge,” the communiqué added.
A major outcome of the visit was the commitment to ensure the swift implementation of 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the two countries, alongside efforts to finalize pending agreements.
On continental matters, Ghana welcomed Zimbabwe’s offer to host the African Union Mid-Year Summit in 2027 during Ghana’s chairmanship, while both nations reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination at regional and international levels.
The leaders also highlighted the importance of the African Union and multilateral cooperation in advancing shared interests.
President Mnangagwa commended Ghana’s leadership in promoting historical justice, particularly through the United Nations resolution recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity.
“This landmark initiative reflects the shared commitment of both countries to truth, justice, and the dignity of African peoples,” the communiqué said.
President John Dramani Mahama, in turn, congratulated all co-sponsors, including Zimbabwe, for their support of the resolution.
Zimbabwe also expressed appreciation for Ghana’s backing of its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, as well as Ghana’s continued advocacy for the removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.
On global issues, both leaders expressed concern over rising geopolitical tensions and reaffirmed their commitment to international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
“They called for dialogue, diplomacy and multilateral cooperation to ensure the peaceful resolution of disputes and the promotion of global peace and stability,” the statement emphasized.
At the conclusion of the visit, President Mnangagwa expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation and invited President Mahama to undertake a reciprocal visit to Zimbabwe.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the visit and reiterated their determination to deepen cooperation across all sectors.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
