Ghana and Zambia have committed to enhancing collaboration in trade and investment, as confirmed during the visit of Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, to Lusaka, where she was welcomed by President Hakainde Hichilema.
President Hichilema emphasized the significance of economic stability and development for political stability during their meeting at the State House.
As part of the visit, Minister Botchwey signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with her Zambian counterpart, Mr. Mulambo Haimbe, covering various aspects of cooperation between the two nations.
The first MoU encompasses mechanisms for fostering commercial, economic, cultural, technical, scientific, and political cooperation. The second MoU focuses on defense cooperation, encompassing training and development initiatives.
During closed-door discussions, Minister Botchwey and President Hichilema also addressed her candidacy for the position of Commonwealth Secretary-General. Ghana and Zambia share a historical bond, dating back to their independence struggles led by Presidents Nkrumah and Kaunda.
Reflecting on the historical ties, Ms. Botchwey highlighted the potential for a robust business relationship, especially with the presence of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Ghanaian diplomats in Lusaka acknowledged the enduring affinity for Ghana in Zambia, with a legacy established by Ghanaian professionals and academics settling in the country from the post-independence years through the eighties.
Ms. Botchwey, in a recent comprehensive lecture, outlined her vision for a “new Commonwealth,” focusing on trade and investment, leveraging ICT for skills and innovation, a Commonwealth-wide migration compact, and advocating for concerted action against climate change to benefit all member states, particularly small island developing states. The Commonwealth Heads of Government are set to choose a new leader in October, replacing the current Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland.