Ghana, Zimbabwe push for stronger ties, expanded economic cooperation

Ghana and Zimbabwe have called for renewed efforts to deepen bilateral relations and broaden economic cooperation across sectors such as trade, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.

Speaking at the opening of the inaugural session of the Ghana–Zimbabwe Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) on Friday in Accra, the Chief Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Khadija Iddrisu, said the meeting formalises a structured framework for cooperation while renewing a long-standing partnership rooted in shared history.

She noted that Ghana and Zimbabwe’s ties date back to the era of Africa’s independence struggles, recalling Ghana’s support for Zimbabwe’s liberation efforts under the leadership of Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

Ambassador Iddrisu said Ghana was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Zimbabwe after its independence in 1980, describing the move as a reflection of strong bonds of solidarity and shared purpose.

“The signing and implementation of these agreements will translate our shared vision into practical outcomes that benefit our people,” she said.

She disclosed that more than 20 priority areas have been identified for cooperation, including trade and investment, agriculture, mining, energy, education, health and tourism.

The chief director urged all parties to concentrate on tangible results, saying that the Commission must be more than just a consultation body that produces measurable results, persistent action, and defined priorities.

On his part, Zimbabwe’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ambassador Albert Ranganai Chimbindi, acknowledged progress made in recent years, including the visa-free arrangement between the two countries, which he described as a step towards promoting movement, people-to-people contact, and African integration.

He, however, called for further action to remove barriers to trade and investment, noting that there was a need to go the extra distance to address all impediments while urging African countries to work together to promote intra-continental trade.

Ambassador Albert Ranganai Chimbindi stressed the need for free movement of people, goods and services across the continent, noting that African countries must take responsibility for their own development.

On education, he expressed appreciation for scholarship opportunities offered by Ghanaian institutions to Zimbabwean students, particularly in science and technology fields and also called for renewed collaboration between universities and research institutions in both countries.