Ghana and Zambia have reached a historic agreement to abolish visa requirements for each other’s citizens, a move expected to significantly boost regional mobility, trade, and tourism.
The visa-free travel deal was confirmed by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during President John Dramani Mahama’s official three-day visit to Zambia. The trip focuses on strengthening diplomatic relations, expanding economic cooperation, and deepening people-to-people ties between both nations.
President Mahama arrived in Lusaka on Wednesday, February 4, where Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed him at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, marking the start of high-level bilateral engagements.
Speaking on the outcome of the talks, Ablakwa described the agreement as unprecedented in Ghana-Zambia relations.
“For the first time in the history of Ghana-Zambia relations, we are introducing visa-free travel between our two countries,” he announced.
According to officials, the visa exemption emerged as one of the most significant outcomes of the bilateral discussions. Under the new policy, citizens of Ghana and Zambia can now enter, transit, and move freely between both countries without securing entry permits.
As a result, long-standing administrative hurdles that complicated travel are expected to disappear. Government officials believe the policy will immediately improve business operations, attract tourists, and expand cultural and professional exchanges.
Moreover, students, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers stand to benefit from smoother cross-border movement. Authorities say the agreement will also enhance collaboration in education, trade, and investment.
Beyond bilateral gains, the visa-free arrangement reflects a broader continental push toward African integration. Both governments have reaffirmed their commitment to improving connectivity and supporting free movement across Africa in line with regional development goals.
