As Algeria’s relations with the member states of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have grown increasingly strained, the country is actively pursuing closer partnerships with other African powers. It is in this context that Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, visited Algiers on 29–30 April at the invitation of his Algerian counterpart, Ahmed Attaf.
A Two-Phase Visa Waiver Agreement
At the conclusion of the visit, the two countries signed a visa waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. A second agreement, currently being finalised, aims to extend this exemption to ordinary passport holders. This development would mark a decisive step toward facilitating both people-to-people and commercial exchanges.
For Algerian citizens, the move could mean visa-free access to one of West Africa’s most dynamic and politically stable economies. For Ghana, it represents an opportunity to intensify ties with a major energy-producing nation on the continent.
An Ambitious Bilateral Roadmap
Beyond the visa agreements, the visit resulted in the adoption of a joint roadmap covering several key sectors. Planned actions include convening a new session of the Joint Cooperation Commission in Accra before the end of the year, establishing a regular political consultation mechanism, and strengthening cooperation in higher education, health, agriculture, agro-industry, justice, construction materials, and transport.
Discussions are also underway to open a direct air route between Algiers and Accra, further facilitating mobility and economic opportunities.
Towards Stronger Energy Cooperation
As a net oil importer, Ghana has expressed strong interest in forming a strategic energy partnership with Algeria, particularly in securing natural gas supplies. This rapprochement is part of a broader drive to enhance South-South cooperation, set against a backdrop of regional instability and shifting African alliances.
A Pan-African Push for Mobility
The visa exemption initiative reflects a wider continental trend to promote the free movement of people between African nations. It also underscores a shared determination to overcome bureaucratic hurdles that continue to hamper intra-African exchanges—key to the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A Promising Diplomatic Alignment
Described by the Ghanaian minister as “solid and promising”, the Algeria-Ghana relationship is being built on tangible commitments. This visit marks a major step in consolidating a North–South African cooperation axis, grounded in mutual interests, open dialogue, and a shared vision for sustainable development.
In a shifting African geopolitical landscape, Algeria is positioning Ghana as a trusted partner with whom to diversify alliances, extend its influence in sub-Saharan Africa, and contribute to building a more integrated, mobile, and economically interconnected continent.
