Mahama begins official Jamaica visit to deepen Ghana-CARICOM ties

President John Dramani Mahama has begun a four-day official visit to Jamaica aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Ghana and the Caribbean nation, while deepening cooperation with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

The visit, which started on Sunday, August 2, and will end on Wednesday, August 5, will focus on expanding collaboration in trade, culture, South-South cooperation and the global campaign for reparations for the transatlantic slave trade.

The Presidency had announced the visit in a statement issued on Thursday, July 30, saying it would reinforce the longstanding historical and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Jamaica and open a new chapter in Africa-Caribbean relations.

During the visit, President Mahama is expected to participate in a high-level Reparations Dialogue at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus.

He will join Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of UWI and Chairman of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, to advance discussions on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact.

The President will also hold bilateral talks with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, with discussions expected to focus on trade, culture and South-South cooperation.

He is further scheduled to address a joint sitting of Jamaica's Houses of Parliament, where he will outline his vision for stronger Africa-Caribbean relations and enhanced cooperation between Ghana and CARICOM.

Other engagements on the President's itinerary include a Trade and Investment Dialogue, a tour of the Kingston Freeport, a courtesy call from Opposition Leader Mark Golding, and participation in the "Mello-Go-Roun" cultural event as Jamaica celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary.

President Mahama will also honour the shared Pan-African heritage of Ghana and Jamaica by laying a wreath at the shrine of Jamaica's National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, at the National Heroes Park, and visiting the preserved Ghanaian Village Houses at Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann.

Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen are also expected to host a State Dinner in honour of President Mahama at King's House.

The Presidency said the visit is expected to position Ghana as a gateway for CARICOM's engagement with Africa while advancing cooperation in trade, investment, reparations and South-South partnerships.