21st April 2026
John Mahama has called for stronger cooperation between Ghana and Zimbabwe across key sectors such as trade, mining, agriculture, and energy, as both countries seek to deepen economic ties and promote regional integration. He made the remarks during bilateral talks with Emmerson Mnangagwa on April 2 as part of efforts to strengthen relations.
Mahama highlighted recent progress in renewing cooperation, pointing to a general cooperation agreement signed in 2023. He also underscored Ghana’s role in advancing continental trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area, noting its importance in driving economic integration across Africa.
He said the positions of both countries within their respective regional blocs—Economic Community of West African States and Southern African Development Community—offer a unique opportunity to strengthen linkages between West and Southern Africa and expand collaboration across the continent.
Mahama identified priority areas for joint action, including mining, where he called for responsible practices and greater value addition, as well as agriculture, where Ghana can learn from Zimbabwe’s experience in climate-smart farming. He also highlighted energy cooperation, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure, as critical to supporting industrial growth.
Beyond economic sectors, he emphasised the need to strengthen people-to-people ties through education, tourism, culture, and sports, while encouraging greater private sector engagement. He also stressed the importance of improved connectivity, including potential direct flights between Accra and Harare, and expressed confidence that ongoing discussions would lead to concrete outcomes. Meanwhile, Mnangagwa commended Ghana’s leadership on advocating recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as a grave crime against humanity.