Kenya Waives Visa Requirements for Most African Nationals

Edited By: Aminata Diallo

Since July 1st, citizens from the majority of African countries no longer require a visa for short stays in Kenya, a move aimed at strengthening intra-African trade and boosting tourism.

The new policy allows most African travelers to enter Kenya without the previously mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Depending on the country of origin, eligible visitors can now remain in Kenya for 60 to 90 days without prior authorization.

The decision, quietly implemented at the beginning of the month, was later highlighted by Kenyan journalist and CNN correspondent Larry Madowo, who shared the news in a video on X (formerly Twitter), inviting fellow Africans to “come visit, we’re amazing!” The message quickly went viral, garnering over 10,000 shares.

This visa exemption aligns with long-standing promises by Kenyan authorities to promote free movement on the continent. The initiative is expected to facilitate commercial partnerships, enhance regional cooperation, and attract more visitors to Kenya’s renowned national parks and Indian Ocean coastline.

However, the policy excludes Somalia and Libya due to ongoing security concerns, according to Kenyan officials.