Geopolitics: Senegal and Ghana adjust visas in response to EU

Changes in visa policy in Senegal and Ghana

Consecutively, Senegal and Ghana have recently made important announcements regarding their visa policies. The Senegalese government has decided to impose reciprocal conditions on European countries for the issuance of visas, while the Ghanaian government has opted for an open policy, allowing the free movement of African passport holders on its territory.

Senegal imposes reciprocity

Senegal’s approach to visas now focuses on the principle of reciprocity, as announced by the country’s Prime Minister. This new directive states that “the principle of reciprocity will be applied for the issuance of visas to citizens of countries that require visas for Senegalese”. In other words, countries that impose complex and onerous procedures on Senegalese citizens to obtain a visa will have to expect similar measures in return, according to a statement reported by Seneplus.

Ghana eliminates visas for Africans

At the same time, Ghana has taken a significant step by abolishing the need for visas for all Africans wishing to enter the country. According to Business Insider Africanthis decision makes Ghana one of the few African countries, joining Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia and Benin, to allow visa-free entry to all African passport holders. Prior to this announcement, Ghana already allowed visa-free access to nationals of 26 African countries, and travelers from 25 other African countries could obtain a visa upon arrival.

This initiative marks a notable gesture from the current president whose term will end on January 7, 2025. On that date, President-elect John Mahama will officially take office as head of Ghana. This opening of borders represents a major step forward in the country’s African integration policy.

Through these changes, Senegal and Ghana illustrate a notable evolution in the management of visa policies in Africa, reflecting a trend towards more reciprocity and inclusion on the continent.

Similar articles