In a landmark move to foster regional integration and boost tourism, Kenya has announced a visa-free travel policy for citizens of nearly all African countries.
The directive, approved by the Kenyan cabinet on Tuesday, eliminates the previously required Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for most African visitors.
The new policy applies to all African nations except Somalia and Libya, citing ongoing security concerns. This change, the government explained, is part of efforts to promote open skies, enhance tourism, and streamline regional travel.
Key Changes in the New Policy
- Citizens of most African countries can now visit Kenya for up to two months without prior authorisation.
- Members of the East African Community (EAC), including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, are granted six-month stays, aligning with regional bloc agreements.
- An enhanced system promises instant travel approvals, with a maximum processing time of 72 hours for certain cases.
Addressing Criticism of the ETA System
The Electronic Travel Authorisation system, introduced in recent years, had replaced visa-free travel for over 40 countries, including many in Africa. Critics labelled it as a “visa under another name,” arguing it complicated travel by requiring visitors to pay $30 and apply online at least three days before travel.
The government defended the ETA as a tool for enhancing security and streamlining passenger processing, especially in the wake of threats from Somalia-based al-Shabab militants. However, its impact on tourism and ease of travel sparked significant debate, prompting this shift.
Regional and Global Implications
Despite its progressive stance on travel, Kenya ranked 46th out of 54 African nations in the 2024 Africa Visa Openness Index, a notable drop of 17 places. The new policy seeks to address this gap and position Kenya as a more welcoming destination.
To further improve the traveller experience, the government announced plans to roll out updated airport guidelines within a week, though the exact implementation date for the new visa-free policy remains undisclosed.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s vision of fostering pan-African unity while addressing practical concerns around tourism and economic growth. The move could serve as a model for other nations seeking to balance security with openness.
