By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

Kenya has officially scrapped visa requirements and the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for citizens of almost all African countries, with the exceptions of Libya and Somalia due to ongoing security concerns. This policy shift, effective immediately, marks a significant step towards greater regional integration and aims to boost tourism and intra-African trade.

Under the new policy, citizens from eligible African nations will no longer need to apply for an ETA, complete lengthy application forms, or pay any visa fees to enter Kenya. This streamlined entry process allows travelers to be admitted at the border without bureaucratic delays. African visitors can now enjoy a stay of up to two months in Kenya, while nationals from the East African Community (EAC) will continue to benefit from an extended six-month stay, aligning with existing free movement protocols within the EAC.

This move follows a government notice issued in January 2025, outlining Kenya’s intent to exempt all African countries from ETA requirements. The decision is a direct manifestation of President William Ruto’s vision for a more integrated and borderless continent, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a continent where borders are bridges, not barriers.

The announcement has been widely lauded by tourism stakeholders and advocates for African integration. By simplifying entry procedures, Kenya aims to unlock opportunities for cross-border investment, cultural collaboration, and people-to-people connections, thereby contributing to the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to significantly increase intra-African trade.

Kenya joins a growing list of African nations, including Ghana, Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and the Republic of Benin, that have adopted visa-free access for African passport holders. This collective effort is seen as crucial for fostering economic growth, promoting cultural exchange, and strengthening the bonds of shared heritage across the continent. While the previous ETA system had faced criticism for adding bureaucratic hurdles, this latest amendment demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to truly opening its doors and becoming a leading example in the pursuit of a unified, accessible, and prosperous Africa.