Ghanaian traders and producers are being encouraged to capitalise on the growing demand for local products in Southern Africa, with Zambia positioned as a strategic gateway to the wider regional market.

Zambia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Ghana, Albert Mateyo Chifita, says Ghanaian businesses, particularly those dealing in shea butter and traditional textiles such as fugu, stand to benefit significantly from expanding trade links.

Speaking at the 2026 Ghana Development Awards in Accra, he urged producers, especially from Northern Ghana, to position themselves strategically to tap into emerging export opportunities.

According to him, President John Mahama’s decision to wear fugu during a recent visit to Zambia has sparked renewed interest in Ghanaian culture and products.

“For him to go in that traditional attire has rekindled interest,” he noted, adding that the symbolic gesture has opened new avenues for trade and cultural exchange.

Beyond textiles, Mr Chifita highlighted surging demand for shea butter among Zambian consumers, describing it as a high-value commodity with strong export potential.

“Anybody who comes to Ghana from Zambia, the first question is: take me to where shea butter is sold,” he said. “Both the black and the refined types are in high demand. It is up to producers to scale beyond the local market.”

Shea butter, derived from the nut of the African shea tree, is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food processing, making it a versatile export product.

Mr Chifita further emphasised Zambia’s geographic advantage as a land-linked country bordering nine others, positioning it as a viable trade hub for Ghanaian goods seeking access to Southern African markets.

The 3rd Ghana Development Awards recognised 26 organisations and five individuals whose work is transforming communities across sectors, including health, education, finance, environment, vocational development and human rights.

The Zambian Deputy High Commissioner commended Ghana’s private sector for its resilience and growing influence across key industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy and digital innovation.

“These sectors are expanding markets, strengthening value chains and positioning Ghana as one of West Africa’s most attractive investment destinations,” he stated. “Business leaders do not simply manage companies; they build economies and shape the future of the nation.”

He encouraged Ghanaian entrepreneurs to scale their ambitions beyond borders, stressing that their success contributes not only to Ghana’s growth but to Africa’s broader economic transformation.

“Through your leadership, you are creating jobs, building industries and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs. Your success is not only Ghana’s success, but it is also Africa’s success,” he added.