President John Dramani Mahama has urged deeper collaboration between Ghana and Zimbabwe in areas such as trade, mining, agriculture, and energy, as both nations look to strengthen economic cooperation and regional integration.
He made the call during bilateral talks with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday, April 2, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance relations between the two countries.
President Mahama noted that both countries have already taken steps to strengthen ties in recent years. “In recent years, we’ve taken deliberate steps to revitalise and deepen our cooperation,” he said, referencing the general cooperation agreement signed in 2023.
Highlighting Ghana’s role in continental trade, he added that “the successful convening of the inaugural permanent secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area remains committed to promoting economic integration.”
He pointed out that the positions of both countries within their respective regional blocs present an opportunity for broader continental collaboration. “Ghana’s strategic position within ECOWAS and Zimbabwe within SADC presents a unique opportunity to strengthen the linkages between West and Southern Africa,” he said.
Touching on priority sectors, the President emphasised the importance of cooperation in mining, noting the need for both countries to maximise benefits from their natural resources.
“In the mining sector, both our countries are richly endowed with natural resources. We must work together to promote responsible mining practices and, importantly, enhance value addition and beneficiation so that Africa retains a greater share of the wealth derived from our natural resources,” he said.
On agriculture, he indicated that Ghana could benefit from Zimbabwe’s experience, particularly in addressing climate-related challenges.
“Zimbabwe’s experience in irrigation and climate-smart agriculture offers valuable lessons for Ghana as we continue efforts to strengthen our food security and modernise our agricultural sector,” he stated.
Energy was also highlighted as a key area of cooperation, especially in driving industrialisation.
“Energy remains central to our development ambitions. There is significant scope for cooperation in renewable energy and power infrastructure to support industrialisation and economic transformation,” he said.
Beyond economic sectors, President Mahama called for stronger collaboration in areas that foster closer ties between citizens.
“We must also deepen cooperation in education, tourism, culture, and sports areas that strengthen people-to-people connections and sustain long-term partnerships,” he said.
He expressed particular interest in tourism, suggesting joint initiatives that connect major destinations in both countries.
“I’m particularly encouraged by discussions on potential tourism collaboration, linking destinations such as Cape Coast and Victoria Falls,” he said.
“This presents an opportunity to combine Ghana’s rich historical heritage with Zimbabwe’s globally renowned natural attractions.”
The President also underscored the role of the private sector, urging increased business engagement to unlock economic potential.
“We must actively encourage business-to-business engagements to unlock the full economic potential of our partnership,” he said, adding that improved transport links would be critical.
“Improving connectivity, including exploring direct air links between Accra and Harare, will be essential to facilitating trade, tourism, and investment,” he noted.
President Mahama expressed optimism that the discussions would yield tangible outcomes.
“I’m confident that our discussions today will allow us to review the progress we have made, address any challenges, and chart a clear and forward-looking path for our bilateral relations,” he said.
“I look forward to productive and fruitful deliberations that will further strengthen the bonds between our two countries and advance our shared vision for Africa’s development,” he added.
Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa commended Ghana for its leadership in advocating for the recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.
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