Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya

In a landmark decision reflecting its commitment to Pan-Africanism and regional integration, Kenya has announced it will abolish the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for citizens of most African countries. This move is part of a broader policy to simplify travel within the continent, promote tourism, and strengthen cultural and economic ties.

A Game-Changer for African Travel

During its first cabinet meeting of 2025, the Kenyan government approved recommendations to enhance the ETA system to boost efficiency and improve the travel experience. One of the most significant reforms is the removal of the ETA requirement for African nationals, except for citizens of Somalia and Libya, due to security concerns.

Also read: Ghana Allows Visa-free Entry For All Africans

Also read: Africa’s Visa Openness Flourishes Facilitating Continental Travel and Trade

Eligible African travellers will be able to visit Kenya for up to two months without prior authorisation. For member states of the East African Community (EAC) – Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda – the visa-free stay is extended to six months, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to regional integration.

View of Kilimanjaro from Amboseli National Park, Kenya.
View of Kilimanjaro from Amboseli National Park, Kenya.

This policy builds on Kenya’s visa-free travel initiative introduced in January 2024, which aimed to attract more visitors by replacing traditional visas with the ETA system. While the ETA initially simplified entry for foreign travellers, it faced criticism for being a “visa under another name,” leading to delays and additional costs.

Accelerated ETA Processing for Other Nationalities

For travellers from non-African nations, Kenya is introducing expedited ETA processing. The updated system will allow instant approvals, with a maximum processing time of 72 hours. This improvement is supported by the adoption of Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems to streamline data collection and enhance security.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano revealed plans to make the ETA system more user-friendly by enabling multiple entries over a one- to two-year period. She described the reforms as a response to “teething challenges” that had hindered the effectiveness of the ETA since its introduction.

Driving Pan-African Unity Through Open Borders

Kenya’s decision to abolish the ETA for most African countries aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which prioritises free movement of people and regional integration. This initiative also mirrors similar moves by nations like Ghana and Rwanda, which have eased visa restrictions for African travellers in recent years.

The move is expected to:

  • Boost intra-African tourism by making Kenya more accessible to African visitors.
  • Strengthen economic ties and cultural exchange across the continent.
  • Restore Kenya’s ranking in the Africa Visa Openness Index, where it dropped to 46th in 2024 following the introduction of the ETA.

By removing barriers to travel, Kenya is reclaiming its position as a leader in promoting Pan-African unity.

Balancing Openness with Security

While Kenya’s open-border policy signals a progressive shift, the government remains vigilant about security. Somalia and Libya are excluded from the policy due to ongoing security concerns, particularly threats from al-Shabab militants. The advanced API/PNR system will help pre-screen travellers, enhancing safety while ensuring efficient processing at entry points.

Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya

Cabinet Secretary Miano emphasised the importance of balancing openness with security, stating that the government’s goal is to make Kenya’s travel policies “faster, safer, and more inclusive.”

What’s Next for Travellers?

The government has tasked various ministries to develop guidelines within a week to improve the traveller experience at Kenyan airports. These guidelines will ensure a smooth transition to the new policy. For African nationals, this means a hassle-free journey to Kenya, whether for leisure, business, or cultural exchange. For non-African travellers, the expedited ETA process promises faster approvals and greater convenience.

Kenya’s Vision for the Future

As Kenya opens its doors wider to African visitors, it sets a powerful example for the continent. This decision is not just about travel policies; it’s about fostering unity, encouraging collaboration, and showcasing the resilience and potential of Africa. From the vibrant streets of Nairobi to the breathtaking landscapes of the Maasai Mara and the serene beaches of the Kenyan coast, the country is ready to welcome the world with open arms.

Kenya’s bold reforms mark the dawn of a new era for African travel, where borders become bridges, and unity drives progress.


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