Ghana is set to become the fifth African country to implement a visa-free travel policy for all African citizens, following President Nana Akufo-Addo’s executive approval on December 18, 2024. Apexnewsgh reports
This move has been hailed as a significant step towards creating a single African market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development Trade Tourism Industry and Minerals at the AfCFTA secretariat, this policy is “a move in the right direction” and removes a major non-tariff barrier to intra-African trade.
President Akufo-Addo had promised to implement the visa-free travel policy during the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2024, held in January. The policy is expected to take effect on January 1, 2025.
Ghana’s decision is seen as a major boost to the African Union’s efforts to promote free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent. Currently, only Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin offer visa-free entry to all African citizens.
The move has been welcomed by business leaders, including Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote, who has spoken about the frustrations of traveling across Africa due to restrictive visa policies.
As Ghana takes the lead in promoting African integration, other countries are expected to follow suit. The AfCFTA secretariat has expressed optimism that the policy will contribute to the growth of intra-African trade and the creation of a single African market.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
