Kenyan President William Ruto has declared plans to abolish visa requirements for all African visitors by the year’s end.
During an international conference, President Ruto stressed the urgency of eliminating visa restrictions within Africa, deeming them counterproductive.
The African Union (AU) has long pursued the goal of promoting visa-free travel across the continent, with limited progress despite regional agreements and bilateral arrangements.
In 2022, only Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin allowed entry to all African citizens without a visa, as per an AU-endorsed report.
Nonetheless, the Africa’s Visa Openness Index, which gauges the accessibility of African countries to visitors from other African nations, indicates progress in simplifying entry procedures and reducing restrictions for specific countries. In 2022, Kenya ranked 31st out of 54 African states on this index.
Addressing a gathering in Congo-Brazzaville, President Ruto underscored the adverse effects of visa constraints on businesses, entrepreneurs, and travelers.
He affirmed Kenya’s commitment to this change, proclaiming, “By the end of this year, no African will be required to have a visa to come to Kenya.” His announcement received a hearty reception from conference attendees.
President Ruto stressed the significance of not restricting African youth to their continent or Europe’s borders.
This announcement was made during a summit dedicated to the conservation of the world’s largest rainforests.
