Visa requirements for African citizens scrapped

Ghana will allow visa-free entry to citizens of all African countries starting early this year. The move, approved by President Nana Akufo-Addo in December, makes Ghana the fifth African country to open its borders to all holders of African passports, notes an RFI report. The decision follows through on a promise made by Akufo-Addo at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues a year ago to enhance regional integration and ease movement across the continent. Previously, Ghana provided visa-free access to citizens of 26 African nations and visas on arrival for travellers from 25 others. Only visitors from two African countries required a visa before entering Ghana. ‘This is about building stronger ties across Africa,’ Akufo-Addo said in a statement, adding that ‘Ghana’s future is tied to a united continent’. Ghana joins Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia and Benin in offering visa-free entry to all African passport holders. The policy aligns with the African Union’s vision of greater economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area, based in Ghana. Experts have long cited visa restrictions as a significant barrier to trade, tourism and cultural exchange.

Full RFI report