Omanghana
As of Friday, February 6, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana is on an official state visit to Zambia, as part of a three-day diplomatic engagement aimed at deepening bilateral ties and expanding economic cooperation between the two African nations.
The visit, which runs from February 4 to February 6, 2026, reflects Ghana’s renewed foreign policy focus on strengthening South–South cooperation, regional integration, and economic diplomacy across the continent. During his stay in Lusaka, President Mahama engaged Zambian leadership, business communities, and historical institutions to reinforce both political solidarity and practical economic collaboration.
Historic Visa Waiver Agreement Signed
One of the most significant outcomes of the visit was the signing of a historic visa waiver agreement between Ghana and Zambia. Under the agreement, citizens of both countries will be allowed to travel visa-free, a move expected to boost tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
Officials from both sides described the agreement as a major step toward easing mobility within Africa and advancing the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by removing barriers that hinder cross-border business and cooperation.
Expanding Economic and Sectoral Cooperation
Beyond diplomatic relations, Ghana and Zambia agreed to elevate their partnership from long-standing political solidarity to a more robust framework focused on economic independence and development. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed covering key sectors, including healthcare, trade, digital technology, and innovation.
These agreements are designed to facilitate knowledge exchange, private-sector collaboration, and joint initiatives that support sustainable development goals in both countries. Ghana’s experience in digital governance, fintech, and public-sector reforms was highlighted as an area of particular interest to Zambian authorities.
Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue
A major highlight of the visit was the Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue, co-chaired by President Mahama and the President of Zambia. The forum brought together business leaders, policymakers, and investors from both countries to explore trade opportunities and partnerships.
During the dialogue, Ghana showcased its strengths in digital technologies and financial technology (fintech), positioning itself as a hub for innovation and digital financial services in West Africa. Zambian businesses and government institutions were encouraged to explore collaboration opportunities, particularly in digital payments, e-governance, and technology-driven service delivery.
Honoring Shared Pan-African History
In a symbolic and reflective moment, President Mahama laid wreaths at Embassy Park in Lusaka, paying tribute to Africa’s liberation heroes. The site is the final resting place of Zambia’s founding president, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, and serves as a powerful reminder of the shared struggle for independence across the continent.
President Mahama drew connections between the legacies of Kenneth Kaunda and Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, emphasizing the enduring Pan-African vision that continues to guide Ghana’s foreign policy and Africa’s collective aspirations.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
President Mahama’s visit to Zambia underscores Ghana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and regional partnerships rooted in shared history, mutual respect, and economic cooperation. As the visit concludes, both countries have signaled their intention to translate signed agreements into tangible outcomes that benefit their citizens and contribute to Africa’s broader integration and development agenda.
Source: Omanghana
