President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana and President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon have jointly urged African nations to collectively reject and actively address xenophobic attacks and all forms of discrimination. This significant call emerged from bilateral discussions held on the first day of President Nguema's three-day state visit to Ghana, which was at President Mahama's invitation.
The two leaders underscored that such discriminatory acts threaten the essential cohesion and shared progress of the entire African continent. They reiterated a firm commitment to maintaining close consultation and coordination within key international bodies. These include the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. Their aim is to advance Africa’s collective interests on issues of common concern.
This joint declaration fits into a broader narrative of African leaders seeking greater regional integration and stability. Xenophobia, or the dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries, has historically hindered economic cooperation and free movement across borders. The AfCFTA, for instance, aims to create a single market for goods and services across 54 African countries, potentially boosting intra-African trade by 52% by 2022, according to the UN Economic Commission for Africa. Addressing xenophobia is crucial for the successful implementation and benefits of such ambitious economic initiatives.
A communique issued after their bilateral meeting reaffirmed their dedication to the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This agenda outlines a 50-year plan for transforming Africa into a global powerhouse. They also committed to the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals recognize the importance of collective African action to promote peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity across the continent.
The implications of this joint stance are significant for regional stability and economic development. By actively condemning xenophobia, Ghana and Gabon are setting a precedent for other African nations to follow. This could foster a more welcoming environment for cross-border trade, investment, and labor mobility, which are vital for economic growth. Decision-makers and markets will be watching to see if this commitment translates into concrete policies and actions to protect foreign nationals and promote integration.
President Mahama commended Gabon's ongoing efforts towards national development, economic transformation, and regional stability. President Nguema, in turn, praised Ghana’s continued commitment to democratic governance, regional peace, and African integration. This mutual recognition highlights a shared vision for progress and stability within the continent.
During his visit, President Nguema participated in a tree planting ceremony at Jubilee House. This act symbolized the enduring friendship between Ghana and Gabon. He also visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, paying tribute to Ghana’s first President and a leading champion of Pan-Africanism. These symbolic gestures reinforce the cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
The two Heads of State expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the official visit. They reaffirmed their determination to further deepen bilateral relations. This will be achieved by implementing the understandings reached during their discussions and by sustaining engagement between relevant institutions of both countries. President Nguema extended an invitation to President Mahama for an official visit to Gabon, which President Mahama accepted.