African Lawyers Applaud Ghana’s Visa-Free Travel Policy
The African Bar Association (AfBA) has commended the Ghanaian government for its visa-free travel policy for all African passport holders, describing it as a significant step towards achieving the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In a statement issued on January 14, 2025 and made available to The Metro Lawyer (TML), AfBA President High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark hailed Ghana’s decision as a progressive move that aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“This forward-thinking policy, previously implemented by Rwanda, the Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin, sets a precedent that other African nations should urgently follow if we are to realise the full potential of a united and prosperous Africa,” the statement read.
Chief Mark emphasised the importance of visa-free travel in fostering development across the continent, stating:
“We cannot make travel within Africa a nightmare for Africans and expect meaningful developmental strides. The benefits of a visa-free travel policy are too numerous to ignore, particularly for economic integration, trade, and collaboration.”
AFBA also called on the African Union (AU) and heads of state to prioritise visa-free travel, enabling Africa to join the ranks of continents like Europe and the Americas that have embraced open-border policies.
The association acknowledged the success of regional blocs that have already implemented visa-free travel within their jurisdictions but stressed the need for a continent-wide approach.
“While regional initiatives are commendable, they are not enough. A unified visa-free policy across Africa is essential for true integration and progress,” the statement noted.
AFBA’s endorsement of Ghana’s initiative follows its 2024 annual conference held in Lusaka, Zambia, which concluded on October 30, 2024. The conference communiqué captured the demand for visa-free travel as a critical component of Africa’s development agenda.
The association urged African leaders to embrace policies that facilitate free movement and strengthen ties among African nations.
Ghana’s visa-free travel policy has been widely lauded as a bold move that underscores the country’s commitment to regional integration and economic development across the continent.
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