In a historic move to promote African integration, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo has announced visa-free travel for all African passport holders. The announcement came during his final State of the Nation address to parliament, just three days before the end of his term.
This policy makes Ghana the fifth African nation to implement visa-free travel for African citizens, joining Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin Republic.
“I am proud to have approved visa-free travel to Ghana for all African passport holders, with effect from the beginning of this year,” Akufo-Addo declared. “This is the logical next step to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the workings of the largest trading bloc in the world.”
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that the move aligns with the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063, which aims to create a fully integrated and connected continent by 2063.
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He underscored that visa-free travel is essential for facilitating trade, movement, and collaboration across African nations, particularly as Ghana serves as the host nation for the AfCFTA Secretariat.
“This policy is a testament to Ghana’s commitment to fostering unity and economic development across the continent,” he added.
Before this announcement, Ghana ranked fifth in Africa on the annual visa-openness index, offering visa-free access to citizens of 26 African countries. The new policy expands this privilege to all African passport holders, cementing Ghana’s role as a leader in continental integration.
Akufo-Addo’s announcement comes as he prepares to hand over leadership to President-elect John Dramani Mahama, who will assume office on January 7. Mahama, a former president of Ghana, is expected to continue fostering regional and continental collaboration.
The visa-free policy is expected to enhance tourism, trade, and cultural exchange while reinforcing the vision of a united Africa. It serves as a practical step towards the free movement of people, goods, and services, as outlined in the AfCFTA framework.
With this landmark decision, Ghana reinforces its position as a beacon of progress and unity on the African continent.
