In a bid to encourage free movement within Africa, Kenyan President William Ruto has proclaimed that by the end of the year, all African visitors will no longer require a visa to enter Kenya.
Speaking at an international conference in Congo-Brazzaville, President Ruto has expressed his desire to completely eliminate visa restrictions for African nations, citing the negative impact it has on entrepreneurs, businesses, and travelers.
The African Union has been pursuing the goal of visa-free travel within the continent for some time now, but progress has been slow.
As of 2022, only three African countries – Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin – allow entry to all African citizens without a visa, according to an AU-endorsed report.
Also read; Jehovah’s Witnesses Convention Attacked in Kerala: 2 Dead, 55+ Injured
However, the Africa’s Visa Openness Index revealed that many African nations have been making headway towards simplifying entry procedures and reducing access barriers for certain countries.
President Ruto’s announcement has been welcomed with applause from conference attendees, with the Kenyan President emphasizing the importance of not limiting African youth within their own continent or Europe.
Apart from encouraging free movement within Africa, President Ruto’s announcement comes on the occasion of a summit focused on the conservation of the world’s largest rainforests. By exempting African visitors’ visa requirements, Ruto aims to facilitate movement and international cooperation across the continent, leading to greater opportunities for partnerships in rainforest conservation efforts.
The move is expected to improve diplomatic relations and trade between nations.
In addition, simplified entry procedures will help attract foreign investment and boost tourism in Africa, promoting economic growth.
This bold move by President Ruto highlights the commitment of the Kenyan government to forge stronger ties with African nations and promote unity and cooperation across the continent.
It sets a positive precedent for other African countries to follow suit and work towards establishing a visa-free Africa, fostering greater integration and development.
BOOKMARK GHANAEDUCATION.ORG FOR MORE!