Ghana Opens Borders: Visa-free entry for African passport holders
In a groundbreaking move towards African integration, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo has announced visa-free entry for all African passport holders, effective January 1, 2025.
The announcement came during his final state of the nation address as he prepares to hand over power to President-elect John Mahama on January 6.
“This marks a significant step in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and achieving the vision of a unified and connected Africa under the AU’s Agenda 2063,” Akufo-Addo said, emphasising the policy’s alignment with broader continental goals.
Enhancing Continental Mobility
Ghana now joins Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin in offering visa-free access to African travellers.
Previously, Ghana allowed visa-free entry for citizens of 26 African nations and visas on arrival for 25 others, while requiring pre-entry visas for only two countries, Eritrea and Morocco.
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The visa-free policy builds on Ghana’s reputation as a cultural and tourism hub, bolstered by initiatives like the 2019 “Year of Return,” which commemorated 400 years since the transatlantic slave trade and celebrated the African diaspora.
Economic Gains and Progress
During his speech, Akufo-Addo highlighted Ghana’s economic recovery, citing an increase in gross international reserves to $8 billion from $6.2 billion in 2017 and projecting a 6.3% GDP growth rate for 2025.
“Ghana is thriving, navigating global challenges with resilience and leaving behind a steadily rebounding economy,” he remarked.
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