In a bold move to promote African unity and boost regional integration, the government of Kenya has officially rolled out a 60-day visa-free stay policy for all African nationals. The decision, announced by President William Ruto, takes immediate effect and positions Kenya as one of the continent’s most open travel destinations.
Under the new policy, citizens of all African countries can now enter Kenya without a visa and remain for up to two months. Authorities say the process will be simple, with travelers required only to complete a digital entry form before arrival.
President Ruto, speaking at the launch event in Nairobi, described the move as a practical step toward achieving the African Union’s long-standing goal of free movement across the continent. “Africa must break down the walls that divide us,” he said. “This visa-free policy reflects our belief in a united, mobile, and economically connected Africa.”
The announcement follows Kenya’s earlier pledge at the African Union Summit to remove visa restrictions for fellow African countries. Many see it as a game-changing development for trade, tourism, education, and cross-border collaboration.
Business leaders and pan-African advocates have praised the policy. They argue that it will create new opportunities for young entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals who previously faced bureaucratic hurdles when traveling within Africa.
However, immigration officials have emphasized that visitors must still comply with health, security, and customs regulations.
With this initiative, Kenya signals a clear shift toward pan-African openness and economic cooperation offering a blueprint for other countries looking to strengthen intra-African ties.
