Ghana approves visa-free entry for all African nationals

• Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has approved visa-free entry for all African nationals
• The policy supports the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enhancing the movement of people, goods, and services
• The policy will take effect before the end of Akufo-Addo’s term on January 6, 2025

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has approved a groundbreaking policy granting visa-free entry to Ghana for all African nationals. 

This historic move, which fulfills a significant promise by the president, will take effect before the end of his term on January 6, 2025.

With this initiative, Ghana joins an exclusive group of African nations offering visa-free access to all African passport holders, including Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin. 

This policy underscores Ghana’s commitment to enhancing the free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent, a key objective of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The announcement was made during President Akufo-Addo’s keynote speech at the 2024 Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD). 

Speaking under the theme, "Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade," the president highlighted the importance of easing travel restrictions to unlock the continent’s economic potential.

“Many of you had to acquire a visa to attend this event,” Akufo-Addo remarked, shedding light on the challenges faced by Africans travelling within the continent. 

He emphasised that the visa-free initiative aligns with the goals of AfCFTA by fostering greater economic integration and making it easier for Africans to engage in trade and collaboration.

Ghana aims to stimulate intra-African trade and strengthen regional ties by removing visa barriers. 

The policy is expected to improve access to markets, create business opportunities, and boost the movement of skilled labour across borders.

The Ghanaian government has already begun taking steps to implement the policy. According to Citi Newsroom (CNR) reports, the visa-free travel policy is expected to be fully operational before January 6, 2025.

Once implemented, this initiative will position Ghana as a leader in regional integration, reaffirming its role in advancing the objectives of the AfCFTA. 

The policy is also anticipated to enhance Ghana’s diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries and further establish the country as a hub for economic activity and collaboration on the continent.

Ghana’s decision to open its borders to all African nationals reflects a broader vision for unity and prosperity. 

By eliminating visa requirements, the country is reducing barriers to travel and promoting inclusivity and cooperation among African nations.

This landmark policy is a bold step toward achieving a truly interconnected Africa, where individuals and businesses can freely pursue opportunities across borders. 

As Ghana prepares to roll out this initiative, it will set a precedent for other African nations in fostering greater regional integration and economic growth.

Tinubu congratulates Ghana's John Mahama on presidential election victory

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu congratulated former Ghanaian President John Mahama on his victory in the December 7 general election, following Mahama’s successful bid for a second term in office. 

Mahama’s win was confirmed after his main rival, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat to ease tensions following reported clashes in several constituencies.