Kenyan President William Ruto has announced plans to eliminate visa requirements for all African visitors by the end of this year. This significant move aims to promote easier travel within the continent and boost regional integration.
Speaking at an international conference, President Ruto stressed the counterproductivity of visa restrictions among African nations. The African Union (AU) has long advocated for visa-free travel within Africa, but progress has been slow, with only a few countries like Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin permitting visa-free entry for all African citizens as of 2022.
Nonetheless, many African countries have been working to simplify entry procedures and reduce restrictions for specific nations, as indicated by the Africa’s Visa Openness Index. In 2022, Kenya ranked 31st out of 54 African states on this index.
President Ruto, addressing attendees in Congo-Brazzaville, emphasized the adverse impact of visa restrictions on businesses, entrepreneurs, and travelers. He declared Kenya’s commitment to this endeavor, stating, “By the end of this year, no African will be required to have a visa to come to Kenya.” This announcement was met with enthusiastic applause from the conference participants.
President Ruto highlighted the importance of enabling African youth to explore opportunities beyond their own borders and those of Europe. This declaration was made during a summit focused on the conservation of the world’s largest rainforests.
