Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo announced visa-free travel for all African passport holders, starting this year, during his final state of the nation address as he prepares to step down on January 6 after two terms in office.
“I am proud to have approved visa-free travel to Ghana for all African passport holders, effective from the beginning of this year,” Akufo-Addo said in his speech to parliament. “This is the logical next step towards the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the establishment of the world’s largest trading bloc,” he added.
“These initiatives are key to the realization of the AU’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a fully integrated and connected Africa by 2063,” Akufo-Addo stated, referencing the African Union’s development blueprint for a 50-year period.
Ghana now joins countries like Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin in offering visa-free entry to African travelers. Previously, Ghana granted visa-free access to citizens from 26 African nations and visas on arrival for travelers from 25 others. Only two African countries—Eritrea and Morocco—still required a visa for entry.
The visa-free policy builds on Ghana’s efforts to enhance its international reputation. Notably, the 2019 Year of Return campaign attracted thousands of visitors, including celebrities, bolstering Ghana’s profile as a cultural and tourism destination. Some of these visitors even received citizenship, further enhancing Ghana’s global standing.
In his final address, Akufo-Addo also highlighted economic progress under his leadership, citing an increase in Ghana’s gross international reserves from $6.2 billion in 2017 to $8 billion. He projected a 6.3-percent GDP growth rate for 2025, emphasizing that economic recovery has returned to the pre-COVID trajectory.
“I leave behind a Ghana that is thriving—navigating global challenges with remarkable resilience, steadily rebounding, and whose institutions are functioning effectively,” he said.
Despite significant challenges like a $3-billion International Monetary Fund relief program, Ghana remains one of Africa’s most stable democracies.
The presidency now transitions to John Mahama, who emerged victorious in December’s elections.
