By Hannah Dadzie
Ghana and Sierra Leone have signed six Memoranda of Understanding and a bilateral agreement to revitalise their long-dormant cooperation framework, marking a significant shift from dialogue to action in relations between the two countries.
At the ministerial session of the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) in Accra, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the signing of the agreements signals a decisive move to translate years of diplomatic intent into measurable outcomes.
“I would like to admonish this meeting to let this inaugural session mark the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana-Sierra Leone relations, one defined by strategic partnership, enhanced economic cooperation, and enduring Pan-African solidarity.” The Foreign Affairs Minister said
He described the development as a “new phase of accountability,” stressing that the real test of the partnership will lie in the effective implementation of the agreements across key sectors including energy, agriculture, health, trade, and security.
“This is not just about signing documents. The hard work begins now,” Mr Ablakwa stated, revealing that a dedicated delivery unit within the Ministry will track progress to ensure that the agreements produce tangible benefits.
The PJCC, established in 2013 but never activated until now, was revived following high-level engagements between President John Dramani Mahama and his Sierra Leonean counterpart as part of efforts to reposition bilateral relations.
Mr Ablakwa also highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, noting that their cooperation has long extended beyond diplomacy to include support during crises such as the Ebola outbreak and natural disasters.
“Let me recall that when the sub-region was confronted with the Ebola virus in 2014, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, then Chairman of ECOWAS, undertook a solidarity mission to Sierra Leone to highlight the scale of the health crisis confronting the region, particularly Sierra Leone, and succeeded in rallying the support of the international community for a response.
This greatly facilitated the rapid response of the international community and development partners, as well as deployment of logistical support towards the fight against the Ebola disease. These examples illustrate the exemplary collaboration and coordination between our two countries.” Mr Ablakwa indicated
The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Francess Piagie Alghali, described the agreements as a practical step toward unlocking economic opportunities and accelerating development in both countries.
“Today, as we move to formalize that bond through concrete actions and the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding, we must do so mindful of our shared history but more importantly with a clear commitment to ensuring that these MOUs serve as catalysts for the socio-economic development of our two countries.” Madam Alghali
She emphasised that the focus now must be on ensuring that the signed frameworks deliver real impact in priority areas such as tourism, transport, agriculture, energy, and defence.
“This process reflects our collective commitment to move beyond historical ties to a modern partnership that delivers for our people,” she said.
She also commended Ghana for its leadership on global issues, particularly its advocacy at the United Nations on justice and historical accountability.
The agreements are expected to strengthen economic cooperation, enhance security collaboration, and deepen regional integration, with both countries positioning the PJCC as a model for results-oriented partnerships within West Africa.
