Zambia, Ghana elevate bilateral relations to comprehensive economic partnership

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Zambia and Ghana on Friday announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive economic partnership following an agreement between Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and his Ghanaian counterpart John Dramani Mahama.

The move, according to a joint statement, aims to deepen trade, investment, and productive cooperation, with both leaders committing to enhancing private sector participation, facilitating the movement of goods and capital, and promoting joint ventures that support industrial development and job creation.

The announcement followed Mahama’s three-day state visit to Lusaka at the invitation of Hichilema.

The two countries also signed “business transactions valued at $7 million between Zambian and Ghananian fintech companies as well as ongoing business negotiations estimated at $65 million, with a significant potential to generate approximately 8,000 employment opportunities in both countries,” the statement read.

It added that the two presidents also welcomed the conclusion and signing of 10 memoranda of understanding and agreements, including a visa waiver arrangement and a bilateral air services deal establishing direct flights between Lusaka and Accra.