• Visit scheduled from February 4 to 6, 2026, at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema
• Talks to focus on diplomacy, trade, investment, food security, and AfCFTA cooperation
• Visit to end with participation in the Zambia-Ghana Economic Forum

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama is expected in Zambia from February 4 to 6, 2026, for a three-day visit at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema. Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on February 1 that the visit will focus on strengthening bilateral ties, economic cooperation, and continental collaboration.

The two heads of state are set to discuss ways to strengthen diplomatic relations, expand cooperation in trade and investment, address food security, and explore new areas of collaboration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). President John Dramani Mahama is also scheduled to address Zambia’s National Assembly. The implementation of existing memorandums of understanding between Zambia and Ghana is also on the agenda.

Relations between Zambia and Ghana have been shaped by reciprocal state visits and joint commissions aimed at promoting cooperation in trade, the economy, culture, technical fields, science, and politics.

In July 2023, President Hichilema visited Ghana, a trip that led to the signing of several new agreements. In October 2025, Lusaka hosted the second session of the Zambia-Ghana Permanent Joint Commission, which identified priority areas of cooperation including agriculture, energy, mining, and science and technology.

Despite still modest trade flows, estimated at $3.8 million in 2024 by the International Trade Center, both countries aim to deepen their economic cooperation. The visit is set to conclude with their participation in the Zambia-Ghana Economic Forum, which will highlight trade and investment opportunities, particularly within the framework of the AfCFTA.

Lydie Mobio