President John Mahama has called for stronger collaboration between Ghana and Zimbabwe across key sectors such as trade, mining, agriculture, and energy, as both nations work to deepen economic ties and promote regional integration.
He made the remarks during bilateral talks with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday, April 2, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries.
Mahama noted that recent years have seen deliberate steps to revive and expand cooperation, referencing a general cooperation agreement signed in 2023. He also highlighted Ghana’s role in advancing continental trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), emphasizing its importance in driving economic integration across Africa.
According to him, the strategic positions of Ghana within ECOWAS and Zimbabwe within SADC present a valuable opportunity to enhance linkages between West and Southern Africa.
The President identified mining as a key area for joint action, stressing the need for both countries to ensure their natural resources generate greater economic benefits. He called for responsible mining practices and increased value addition so that more wealth from these resources remains within Africa.
On agriculture, Mahama said Ghana could benefit from Zimbabwe’s experience, particularly in irrigation and climate-smart farming, as it works to improve food security and modernize its agricultural sector.
Energy was also highlighted as a critical area for cooperation, especially in supporting industrial growth. Mahama pointed to opportunities in renewable energy and power infrastructure development as essential to economic transformation.
Beyond these sectors, he urged stronger collaboration in education, tourism, culture, and sports to deepen people-to-people connections and sustain long-term partnerships.
He expressed particular interest in tourism, suggesting joint initiatives that could link major attractions such as Cape Coast in Ghana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, combining historical heritage with globally recognized natural sites.
Mahama also underscored the importance of private sector involvement, calling for increased business-to-business engagement to unlock the full potential of the partnership. He added that improved connectivity, including the possibility of direct flights between Accra and Harare, would be key to boosting trade, tourism, and investment.
The President expressed confidence that the discussions would yield concrete outcomes, helping both countries review progress, address challenges, and define a clear path forward for their bilateral relations.
“I look forward to productive deliberations that will further strengthen the bonds between our two countries and advance our shared vision for Africa’s development,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa commended Ghana for its leadership in advocating for the recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.
