President John Mahama and his wife, Lordina Mahama, have departed Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for a three-day State Visit to Lusaka, Zambia.

The President and First Lady are expected to arrive later today and will be received at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport by the Zambian President, Hakainde Hichilema, and his wife.

The visit is part of President Mahama’s wider push for closer cooperation among African states. It reflects his commitment to building “an Africa that is seamlessly connected through enhanced transport infrastructure, expanded trade links, and the free movement of people and goods.”

Soon after his arrival in Lusaka, President Mahama will meet members of the Ghanaian community living in Zambia. The engagement is expected to focus on issues affecting Ghanaians abroad and the role of the diaspora in national development.

On Thursday, President Mahama will hold bilateral talks with President Hichilema. Discussions are expected to centre on strengthening political, economic and trade relations between Ghana and Zambia, as well as cooperation on regional and continental matters.

A major highlight of the visit will be President Mahama’s address to the National Assembly of Zambia. During the address, he is expected to outline Ghana’s vision for “a more integrated and prosperous Africa.”