The Government of Ghana has announced a landmark visa waiver agreement with Zambia, allowing citizens of both countries to travel between the two nations without the need for visas.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during President John Dramani Mahama’s three-day state visit to Zambia, aimed at deepening diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations.
President Mahama arrived in Zambia on Wednesday, February 4, where he received a warm welcome at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport from his Zambian counterpart, President Hakainde Hichilema.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the visit, Mr. Ablakwa described the visa-free arrangement as one of the most significant outcomes of the trip and a key issue discussed by both governments.
According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the removal of visa requirements is expected to boost trade, tourism, investment and cultural exchange between Ghana and Zambia.
“We have also ensured that, as a ministry, we are prioritising smooth mobility, and one of the major outcomes of this state visit, which you will hear President Mahama speak about, is that for the first time in the history of Ghana-Zambia relations, we will have a free visa regime between our two countries,” he said.
Mr. Ablakwa further revealed that the visa-free policy was a direct directive from President Mahama ahead of the visit, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The new policy is expected to eliminate long-standing bureaucratic barriers for students, business people, tourists and professionals, fostering closer cooperation and increased mobility between the two countries.
