Ghana has officially opened its doors to all African passport holders, allowing visa-free entry starting January 1, 2025. This landmark decision positions Ghana as a champion of pan-African unity and marks a significant step toward achieving seamless travel across the continent.
Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo announced the policy during his final state-of-the-nation address, as reported by the BBC. “I am proud to have approved visa-free travel to Ghana for all African passport holders, effective from the beginning of this year,” he told lawmakers.
Akufo-Addo emphasized that the move aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the world’s largest trading bloc. By eliminating visa requirements, Ghana aims to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange among African nations. The policy is expected to drive economic growth and strengthen regional integration.
With this decision, Ghana becomes the fifth African country to offer visa-free travel to all African passport holders, following Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin. This progressive stance reinforces Ghana’s commitment to pan-African values and economic collaboration.
Ghana has long been a leader in visa openness. Prior to this announcement, the country ranked fifth in Africa for visa openness, allowing visa-free travel for citizens of 26 African nations. The new policy extends this privilege to all African countries, setting an example for others to follow.
The initiative also builds on Ghana’s recent efforts to attract people from the continent and the African diaspora. In 2019, the country launched the “Year of Return” campaign, encouraging individuals with African roots to visit and invest in Ghana. The visa-free policy is expected to further enhance these efforts, potentially drawing more investors and strengthening ties with the global African community.
By removing barriers to travel, Ghana is paving the way for a more connected and prosperous Africa. This bold move underscores the country’s dedication to fostering unity and collaboration across the continent.
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