Kenya intends to end visa requirements for African countries. The policy is set to go into motion in 2024. Visa requirements and the cost of air travel make getting around the continent difficult. The motivation for the change in visa requirements are economic. Kenya wants to have a greater role in an African continental free trade area. Attracting workers and tourists could stimulate East African economies. The African Union also has wanted to expand intercontinental African travel. The problem with the AU passport is that it applies mostly to diplomats and government officials. The AU passports are not in the ownership of the average citizen. The benefit is that this could break barriers among peoples and nations. President William Ruto hopes that it helps retain Africans on the continent, rather than going to Europe. The youth are leaving, seeking opportunities abroad. If Africa is going to be competitive, it must have its youth invest in their countries. African nations are hesitant that reducing visa requirements could be a security risk. Certain nations would have to stabilize to reduce this concern. Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Libya, Chad, and Somalia are facing armed conflict. Kenya's challenge is Somalia and another TPLF war in Ethiopia. Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles have unrestricted travel for Africans only. These countries have not had major security risks from that. As long a national sovereignty is respected, reduction of visa requirements should be promoted. The African demand for visa free travel has increased. The opportunities for more trade and economic growth are possibilities with changes in visa policies. Commerce can benefit from the movement of goods and services. Kenya wants to be ahead in relation to economic development. The new visa free travel could be the first step in a new program.
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