President John Dramani Mahama has hosted a state banquet in honour of visiting Zimbabwean President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, celebrating the enduring ties between Ghana and Zimbabwe.
The event, held as part of President Mnangagwa’s three-day official visit, brought together government officials, diplomats, and dignitaries to reaffirm the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
In his remarks, President Mahama warmly welcomed his guest and highlighted the significance of the occasion.
“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to this state banquet held in honour of President Mnangagwa, whose presence here reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Ghana and Zimbabwe,” he said.
Adding a touch of humour, President Mahama referenced the historic familial ties between the two countries.
“As our cherished in-law, we cannot resist a light-hearted reminder about the outstanding lobola, the traditional dowry linked to the historic union between our two nations, which symbolises the deep family ties and friendship that bind us,” he remarked, drawing laughter from guests.
He noted that beyond the ceremonial nature of the event, the relationship between Ghana and Zimbabwe is deeply rooted in shared values and a common African identity.
“This moment, though ceremonial, represents far more than tradition, as it reflects a relationship built on shared values, strengthened by solidarity, and sustained by a common African identity,” President Mahama stated.
The President traced the historical bonds between the two nations to the era of African liberation, paying tribute to iconic leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah and Robert Mugabe.
“Ghana and Zimbabwe are bound by a history that predates formal diplomacy, rooted in the struggles for African liberation led by great visionaries such as Kwame Nkrumah and Robert Mugabe,” he noted.
He added that their shared ideals continue to shape present-day cooperation. “Their shared ideals of freedom, dignity, and pan-African unity continue to guide our cooperation and inspire future generations,” he said.
President Mahama also highlighted the personal and historical connections that further cement the relationship, recalling Robert Mugabe’s time in Ghana and his marriage to Sally Mugabe.
“Zimbabwe’s independence stands as a major milestone in Africa’s liberation history, reflecting the success of collective efforts to achieve freedom and self-determination across the continent,” he added.
He concluded by reaffirming the shared commitment to sustaining the partnership between the two nations.
“As we gather here tonight, we celebrate not only our past struggles and achievements but also the lasting partnership that continues to unite our two nations,” President Mahama said.
The banquet underscored the deep historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Zimbabwe, as both countries seek to strengthen cooperation for mutual development.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
