Ruto Proposes Scrapping of Visa Restrictions for AU Countries

President William Ruto on Monday suggested that visa requirements for African travellers within the continent should be abolished. 

He stated to the African delegates that it could be their last time having to pay for visas when visiting Kenya. The President of Comoros, Azali Assoumani, thanked Ruto for proposing the idea and further joked that he might not require his passport anymore since he wouldn't have to go back home.

"This is home. We support wholeheartedly the AfCFTA and we must remove any impediments to the movement of people around our continent," said Ruto.  

President Ruto voiced his opinion that Africa should strive to unify more, take away any obstacles to international trade, and advocate for the setting up of a cross-border payments system that is safe, reliable, and efficient in order to extend financial access and encourage development in the continent. Ruto made the comments at the opening of the Private Sector Dialogue on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), held in Nairobi.

The Head of State in November 2022 declared that due to the intercession of South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, Kenya and South Africa had come to an agreement on a visa-free regime. This would grant Kenyans with ordinary passports access to South Africa without needing visas. 

Mr Ruto further highlighted the importance of free trade for Africa, explaining that the continent is growing and becoming more competitive. According to Ruto, this move could help reduce poverty and foster economic growth by expanding manufacturing.