Good news has arrived for Africans: Ghana has announced that all African citizens will be allowed to enter the country without a visa.
This significant decision was announced by Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo on December 25, 2024. The policy will come into effect starting in 2025.
Aiming for Free Movement Across Africa
This step is aimed at enhancing free movement across the African continent, positioning Ghana among countries like Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin, which have adopted visa-free travel policies. Additionally, the decision seeks to contribute to the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to increase economic integration across the continent, facilitating trade and investment.
The “Beyond the Return” Initiative and Boost to Tourism
This move is also part of Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” initiative, aimed at strengthening ties with the diaspora. Previously, a temporary visa exemption policy was in place from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, designed to promote tourism.
Tourism is a vital sector in Ghana’s economy. In 2023, the country saw a 25% increase in tourist arrivals, hosting 1,148,002 visitors, and tourism revenue rose by 51.9%, reaching $3.8 billion. The removal of visa requirements for Africans is expected to further accelerate this growth and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Ghana’s bold move is seen as an important step forward in strengthening cooperation on the continent and increasing the freedom of movement for African citizens.
