1. A Strategic Partnership in Lusaka
The agreement was a centerpiece of President Mahama’s high-level mission to Zambia. During the joint press briefing in Lusaka, both leaders emphasized that the visa waiver is not just about tourism, but about economic integration.
The Goal: To allow entrepreneurs, investors, and students to move between Accra and Lusaka without the administrative burden of visa applications.
The Context: This move aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a “continent of seamless borders” to maximize the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
2. Boosting the “AfCFTA” Spirit
As of February 2026, both Ghana and Zambia are looking to diversify their economies away from a reliance on raw commodities (gold and cocoa for Ghana; copper for Zambia).
Business Mobility: By removing visa requirements, the two nations are making it easier for SMEs to explore cross-continental supply chains.
Tourism Growth: The waiver is expected to see a significant uptick in arrivals at Kotoka International Airport (Accra) and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka), as travelers take advantage of the simplified entry protocols.
3. Ghana’s Expanding “Global South” Network
This agreement is part of a broader “Passport Power” strategy led by Ghana’s Foreign Ministry.
Recent Wins: In the last year, Ghana has successfully ratified visa-free deals with several nations, including Mozambique, Colombia, Morocco, and Dominica.
The “Mahama Doctrine”: President Mahama has reiterated his administration’s goal to make the Ghanaian passport one of the most respected in the world, prioritizing reciprocity with fellow African and Global South nations.
