Burkina Faso introduces visa-free travel for all African citizens

Burkina Faso has eliminated visa fees for all African travelers, aiming to streamline the entry of people and goods into the country.

This announcement was made by Security Minister Mahamadou Sana during a cabinet meeting on Thursday, chaired by military leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

"From now on, any citizen from an African country wishing to go to Burkina Faso will not pay any amount to cover visa fees," Sana stated.

This is based on the revised finance law for the execution of the 2025 state budget, in line with Burkina Faso's pan-Africanist stance. The aim is to facilitate the free movement of people and goods within Burkina Faso and promote the integration of African peoples.

However, Sana clarified that African visitors, would still need to complete an online visa application for approval.

This move aligns with the actions of other African nations, such as Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, which have also eased travel requirements for African visitors.

While citizens of West African countries currently enjoy visa-free entry to Burkina Faso, this could change as Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, has withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The government emphasized that the decision to abolish visa fees underscores its dedication to African unity and cooperation. It is expected to boost tourism, promote Burkinabe culture, and enhance the country's international profile.

The African Union (AU) has facilitated intra-continental travel through its Agenda 2063 and its flagship project, the African Passport, aims to grant visa-free movement, residence, and establishment for all African citizens.

At the 38th African Union (AU) Summit, the call for a visa-free continent took center stage. The AUC and the African Development Bank (AfDB) jointly urged African governments to accelerate the removal of visa restrictions that continue to hinder regional integration, trade, and economic development.

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