President John Dramani Mahama will undertake a four-day official visit to Kingston, Jamaica, from Sunday, August 2 to Wednesday, August 5, 2026. This visit aims to strengthen Ghana’s long-standing relations with Jamaica and deepen cooperation with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The trip also seeks to reinforce Ghana’s role in advancing the global campaign for reparations over the transatlantic slave trade. This initiative follows Ghana’s recent support to Jamaica after a major natural disaster, underscoring continued solidarity with its Caribbean partners. The visit highlights the enduring historical and cultural ties between Africa and its Diaspora.
This diplomatic engagement is part of Ghana's broader strategy to enhance South-South cooperation and leverage its historical connections for economic and political advantage. Ghana has consistently advocated for stronger ties with the African diaspora, viewing it as crucial for collective development and influence on the global stage. The focus on reparations aligns with a growing international movement seeking redress for historical injustices, which could have significant economic implications through potential development funds or investment.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, July 30, by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, the visit will include high-level bilateral talks. These discussions will focus on trade, culture, and South-South cooperation, aiming to foster mutual economic growth and cultural exchange. The Presidency stated that the visit is expected to chart a new course for Ghana-Jamaica relations.
A major highlight of the visit will be President Mahama’s participation 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. This dialogue aims to address the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact on affected communities.
President Mahama will also pay tribute to Jamaica’s Pan-African heritage by laying a wreath at the shrine of National Hero Marcus Mosiah Garvey. He will also visit the Ghanaian Village Houses at Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann, further cementing cultural bonds. The official programme includes addressing a joint session of Jamaica’s Parliament and participating in a Trade and Investment Dialogue.
The President will also tour the Kingston Freeport, a key logistical hub, to explore potential trade and investment opportunities. He will receive a courtesy call from Opposition Leader Mark Golding and attend the “Mello-Go-Roun” cultural event as Jamaica marks its 64th Independence Anniversary. Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen will host a State Dinner in his honour at King’s House.
The visit is poised to position Ghana as a gateway for CARICOM’s engagement with Africa, potentially opening new avenues for trade and investment between the two regions. These engagements will strengthen cooperation and reinforce a shared commitment to pursuing reparations, promoting economic resilience, and advancing South-South collaboration. The outcomes of these discussions could influence future trade agreements and cultural exchange programs.