Ghana introduces visa-free entry for African passport holders
By Jeffrey Agbo
Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo has announced the implementation of visa-free travel for all African passport holders, starting this year.
The landmark policy aims to promote continental integration and economic cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking on Friday during his final State of the Nation address ahead of stepping down on January 6 after two terms in office, Akufo-Addo said, “I am proud to have approved visa-free travel to Ghana for all African passport holders, with effect from the beginning of this year.”
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He described the move as a vital step towards realising the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions an interconnected and integrated Africa by 2063. Ghana joins countries like Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin in offering visa-free entry to African travelers.
Previously, Ghana provided visa-free access to citizens of 26 African nations and visas on arrival for 25 others. Only Eritrea and Morocco required pre-arranged visas for entry.
This initiative builds on Ghana’s broader efforts to boost its global image, including the 2019 “Year of Return” campaign, which celebrated African heritage and the diaspora while attracting thousands of tourists and notable figures. The campaign also resulted in some receiving citizenship, further positioning Ghana as a leading cultural and tourism hub in Africa.
