This is a historic step towards free movement across Africa. The country has officially abolished visa requirements for citizens of most African countries, as well as many Caribbean nations. This decision redefines continental mobility and sets a precedent for other African States.
Since the beginning of the year, nationals of African countries, with the exception of Libya and Somalia, have been able to enter Kenya without a visa, form or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) fee. This is due to security concerns cited by Nairobi. All that is required upon arrival is a valid passport.
This measure allows nationals of African countries not belonging to the East African Community (EAC) to stay for up to two months. EAC citizens from Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania and South Sudan, however, can stay for up to six months, in line with regional free movement agreements.
Towards a more mobile Africa: a model to follow?
At the African Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, from 4 to 8 September 2023, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that Kenya would introduce visa-free travel for Africans by 2024. This promise has now been fulfilled. This development could inspire other African Union Member States, many of which continue to struggle to implement the free movement of people – a core principle of Agenda 2063.
As of 2023, only The Gambia, the Seychelles, Rwanda and, most recently, Kenya had fully abolished visa requirements for citizens of all African countries.
Expected impact on tourism and cooperation
The Kenyan government views this open-border policy as a catalyst for growth in tourism, trade, talent mobility, and African unity. The tourism sector, which is a cornerstone of the Kenyan economy, hopes to see a significant increase in visitors from other African countries.
Could this be a lesson for West Africa and Togo?
At a time when many young people in Togo want to travel, study or do business in English-speaking African countries, Kenya’s initiative could create new opportunities, particularly in education, commerce and culture.
However, it also highlights key concerns, such as the slow implementation of the ECOWAS free movement protocol, the ongoing bureaucratic obstacles to travel in West Africa, and the inconsistent national migration policies that hinder intra-African mobility.
Is this a strong signal for a more united, mobile and supportive Africa? What if Kenya were to pave the way towards true African citizenship without borders?
