Ghana, Zambia strengthen bilateral ties with focus on economic cooperation

Ghana and Zambia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with a renewed focus on economic cooperation and addressing shared challenges.

During a meeting at State House in Lusaka on Thursday, President Hakainde Hichilema and his Ghanaian counterpart, John Mahama, held discussions centered on debt restructuring, economic reforms, and fiscal consolidation.

In his remarks, President Mahama noted that both countries were navigating similar economic trajectories and implementing reforms to address fiscal challenges.

“There’s a lot that we can learn from each other and a lot of experiences we can share and some of the key areas of collaboration include the mining industry, where both countries face challenges with artisanal mining and multinational corporations,” he said.

The Ghanaian President also emphasized the need to boost intra-regional trade, welcoming the African Union’s progress on continental free trade while stressing that bilateral cooperation remained crucial to achieving this goal.

President Mahama added that the Ghanaian community in Zambia had expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to them.

“Many have formed multinational families, fostering strong people-to-people bonds between the two nations,” he said.

President Hichilema underscored the importance of pan-Africanism, noting that it must translate into tangible benefits for citizens. He encouraged Ghanaian delegates to visit Zambia with their families.

“Deepening our cooperation will mean something to Ghanaians, Zambians, and Africans when we deliver education, job opportunities, and business opportunities for our youthful population,” he said.

President Hichilema further emphasized shifting Ghana–Zambia relations toward stronger economic ties, noting that while political and community bonds were important, the economic agenda was now paramount.

He highlighted that the economic aspect of the relationship would reinforce other areas of cooperation.

“It’s that angle that will feed on or support other aspects of our relationship,” he said, underscoring the need to prioritize economic collaboration.

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