Ghana rolled out a ceremonial red carpet on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, as President John Dramani Mahama hosted King Mswati III, the monarch of the Kingdom of Eswatini, for high-level bilateral talks aimed at deepening cooperation between the two African nations.
The historic meeting, held at the Jubilee House in Accra, forms part of the King’s four-day state visit to Ghana, which includes cultural exchanges, trade discussions, and a visit to the Asantehene in Kumasi.
King Mswati III, accompanied by the Queen and a royal delegation, was welcomed with a full display of Ghanaian military honours, including a guard of honour, a 21-gun salute, and traditional cultural performances.
Unity and Trade Take Center Stage
President Mahama described the visit as a milestone in pan-African diplomacy, emphasizing the need for closer collaboration in light of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Your Majesty’s visit is more than symbolic; it sets a new tone for cooperation between our countries in trade, culture, and diplomacy,” the President noted, recalling Ghana’s historic role in Africa’s liberation movements and the pursuit of continental unity.
He further called for renewed efforts toward achieving the long-envisioned African integration once championed by Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
King Mswati III, in his remarks, commended Ghana’s leadership in Africa’s history and praised the country’s peaceful democratic journey. He also lauded President Mahama for his electoral victory in 2024, expressing confidence in Ghana’s ability to champion intra-African trade and cooperation.
Ghanaian Community in Eswatini Lauded
The Eswatini monarch also took a moment to commend Ghanaians living in his country, noting their positive contributions to Eswatini’s economy and society. “They are well-behaved, hardworking, and we are proud of their impact,” he said.
King Mswati emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties and encouraged more cultural and educational exchanges.
Signing of Bilateral Agreements
As a key highlight of the meeting, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Eswatini’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Madam Pholile Shakantu, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in areas including trade, tourism, education, and diplomacy.
Both leaders also acknowledged the vital roles played by global Ghanaian diplomats such as the late Kofi Annan and Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey in promoting Africa on the international stage.
Next Stop: The Ashanti Kingdom
As part of his visit, King Mswati is expected to travel to the Ashanti Region to meet Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, in a symbolic cultural visit further reflecting the strengthening ties between Ghana and Eswatini.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and other top government officials were present during the bilateral engagement, which observers say marks a renewed chapter in South-South cooperation on the African continent.
