Business News of Wednesday, 25 December 2024

Source: rainbowradioonline.com

Akufo-Addo grants approval for visa-free travel to Ghana for citizens of all African countries

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has granted approval for visa-free travel to Ghana for citizens of all African countries.

Details emerging indicate that executive approval for the visa-free travel policy was granted on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

The policy will take effect in early 2025, positioning Ghana as the fifth African nation to open its borders to all African passport holders.

The approval aligns with the African Union’s vision of economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

It is anticipated that this move will support efforts to create the world’s largest single market, encompassing 55 nations, and enhance collaboration between African governments and businesses.

Ghana will join Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin as the only African countries offering visa-free entry to all African passport holders.

As previously stated, the President, in his APD 2024 keynote address, delivered under the theme “Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade,” pledged Ghana’s commitment to the visa-free initiative.

“Many of you had to acquire a visa to attend this event,” he said, referencing a special arrangement that reduced visa fees for participants.

“The government of Ghana is committed to ensuring visa-free travel for all Africans, and the process has begun to implement the policy this year,” he assured attendees.

The policy has now been communicated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and the Ministry of the Interior, which have commenced preparations for its execution.

The Ghana Immigration Service is expected to announce the official start date, which is anticipated to be Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

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