Rwanda scraps Visa requirements for all African nations
In a significant step towards enhancing travel and tourism across the African continent, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has announced the removal of visa requirements for all African countries.
This move closely follows a hint from President William Ruto that Kenya will soon eliminate similar restrictions for all African nations by the end of 2023.
President Kagame says this decision was key in boosting trade and tourism among Africans.
Rwanda has emerged as a reputable tourist destination in Africa.
The country received 500,000 visitors in 2022.
“We have also removed visa restrictions for every African country, as well as many other countries,” he confirmed, expressing his commitment to facilitating travel across the region. “Any African can get on a plane to Rwanda whenever they wish and will not pay a thing to enter our country,” President Kagame declared.
The decision to eliminate visa requirements aligns with President Kagame’s vision for seamless travel within the African continent. This move aims to encourage greater tourism, trade, and cultural exchange among African nations.
President William Ruto of Kenya had hinted at a similar plan during his recent visit to Rwanda on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.
Both leaders expressed their commitment to simplifying travel procedures among African countries.
“I am very happy that we are now moving in the direction of eliminating visas amongst ourselves,” President Ruto stated during his visit. “By the end of this year, no African will be required to have a visa to come to Kenya.”
Ruto made this announcement while addressing the summit of the Three Basins on Biodiversity Ecosystems and Tropical Forests in Congo Brazzaville, emphasizing that visa requirements were counterproductive for the growth and cooperation of African nations.
As it stands, Kenya currently grants visa-free entry to nationals from over 40 countries, including more than 15 African nations.
Tourists who visit Rwanda are keen to sample the game parks especially the gorillas and wild animals.
The tiny landlocked country has also transformed into one of the cleanest in Africa and known for orderliness.
Rwanda has also emerged as a competitor to Nairobi in East Africa in hosting several international conferences.
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