Ghana and Colombia have signed a landmark agreement to establish direct maritime connectivity between the Port of Tema and the Port of Cartagena, in a move expected to significantly boost trade between Africa and Latin America.
The agreement, described as historic, was signed in Bogotá following successful bilateral negotiations between the two countries.
Announcing the development, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the deal marks a major step in strengthening economic ties and expanding Ghana’s global trade reach.
According to him, the new arrangement will create a direct shipping route between Ghana and Colombia, reducing logistical bottlenecks and enhancing the movement of goods and services across the Atlantic.
The Minister commended Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Elena Márquez Mina, for championing the initiative, noting that her leadership played a crucial role in bringing the agreement to fruition.
He also expressed appreciation to Colombia’s Foreign Minister, Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, for her “extraordinary leadership and commitment” throughout the negotiation process.
Ablakwa further highlighted the symbolic significance of the agreement, pointing out the transformation of the Atlantic Ocean’s historical narrative.
He noted that the same ocean that once represented the painful legacy of slavery is now being repositioned as a channel for opportunity, economic empowerment and job creation.
The Tema–Cartagena maritime link is expected to open new markets, increase exports, and strengthen commercial cooperation between Ghana and Colombia, while reinforcing Ghana’s ambition to serve as a key trade hub in West Africa.
The agreement also aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen South-South cooperation and diversify Ghana’s international trade partnerships.
