Mahama off to Dubai summit, ahead of Zambia state visit

President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to travel to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to take part in the World Governments Summit 2026, ahead of a three-day state visit to the Republic of Zambia.

In a statement issued on February 1, 2026, the Presidency said Mr Mahama will depart Accra on Sunday, February 1, at the invitation of the Ruler of the UAE. The summit is expected to take place from February 2 to 4.

After the Dubai engagement, President Mahama will continue to Zambia for a state visit from February 4 to 6, 2026, following an invitation from Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema. He will be accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama.

During the visit to Zambia, President Mahama is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Hichilema on issues of mutual interest.

These include diplomatic ties, trade and investment, and joint African trade arrangements under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The programme also includes an address by Mr Mahama to the National Assembly of Zambia. He is also scheduled to meet members of the Ghanaian community living and working in Lusaka.

A Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue, to be co-chaired by Mr Mahama and President Hichilema, has also been planned.

The dialogue is expected to give Ghana the opportunity to present its digital technology and fintech services to Zambian businesses and public institutions.

The statement said the engagements form part of the President’s wider efforts to strengthen regional relations and advance trade integration across Africa.

Mr Mahama is expected to travel to Dubai and onward to Zambia on a special aircraft provided by the Ruler of the United Arab Emirates.

The statement was signed by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President.