Ghana mulls visa-free access for all Africans
Ghana is contemplating a significant move to introduce visa-free travel for all Africans and individuals of African descent, a progressive step that underscores the country’s commitment to fostering continental and diaspora connections.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has expressed optimism that this initiative will not only promote inclusivity but also lead to substantial economic benefits, particularly in terms of boosting the nation’s tourism sector.
As it stands, only a handful of African nations, namely Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin, offer visa-free entry to all African citizens. Ghana’s consideration of a similar policy reflects a broader aspiration to facilitate easier and more extensive interactions between the country and the African continent.
In an interview with Asaase News, Minister Botchwey shed light on the collaborative effort among the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Tourism in deliberating this prospective policy change. She emphasized the importance of attracting not only African visitors but also those of African descent in the global diaspora.
Ghana’s recent initiatives such as the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return” have transformed the nation into a pilgrimage destination for individuals seeking to reconnect with their African roots. The proposed visa-free travel policy aligns with the country’s vision to further strengthen these connections and encourage more people to visit and engage with the motherland.
Ms Botchwey assured that this endeavor is currently in active consideration, with various government bodies collaborating on the feasibility and implementation aspects. While the specific details are yet to be finalized, Ghana’s commitment to this initiative underscores its dedication to fostering unity and promoting tourism as a catalyst for economic growth.
This move by Ghana is not only a noteworthy step towards greater regional and global integration but also underscores the nation’s openness to forging stronger bonds with its African brothers and sisters, both on the continent and in the diaspora.
