By: Sarah Baafi
The Zambian Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, has credited Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, for strengthening bilateral ties and inspiring a high-level fintech visit to Ghana.
Speaking in an interview on Citi FM, Mr. Mutati revealed that his decision to visit Ghana with a delegation of 16 fintech companies was directly influenced by the impact Mr. George made during a recent engagement in Zambia.
“I’ve come here with a delegation because of the impact Sam George created when he came into Zambia,” he said. “When you engage and learn from each other, you begin to deliver the best in transactions and investments. You begin to connect Africa to Africa.”
The visit underscores growing cooperation between Ghana and Zambia in the digital and financial technology sectors, with both countries seeking to deepen innovation, investment, and cross-border partnerships.
Mr. Mutati described his arrival in Ghana as a homecoming of sorts, highlighting personal ties that further strengthen the relationship between the two nations. “For me, coming here is like coming back home,” he noted, adding that his family has connections to Ghana through marriage.
He also reflected on the cultural impressions left during the recent visit of former President John Dramani Mahama to Zambia. According to him, Mr. Mahama’s choice of attire, the traditional northern Ghanaian fugu sparked widespread curiosity among Zambians.
“When President Mahama came to Zambia, he was donned in the fugu. Many initially thought it was a blouse,” he recounted. “But that sparked curiosity, and today, it has been accepted as a transformative African attire.”
Mr. Mutati described the moment as symbolic of the broader cultural and diplomatic exchange between African countries, emphasizing how such interactions can influence perceptions and foster unity across the continent.
He further disclosed that he had the honour of serving as Minister of Honour during President Mahama’s visit, allowing for both formal and informal discussions that helped strengthen ties between the two countries.
The Zambian delegation’s visit is expected to explore partnerships in fintech innovation, digital infrastructure, and investment opportunities, as Ghana continues to position itself as a leading technology hub in West Africa.
The development highlights the increasing importance of intra-African collaboration, particularly in the digital economy, where shared knowledge and partnerships are seen as key drivers of growth.
