Burkina Faso removes visa fees for African nationals to strengthen continental solidarity

Burkina Faso has officially announced the elimination of visa fees for all African nationals, a strategic move designed to bolster Pan-African solidarity and enhance the free movement of individuals and goods across the continent.

In a statement reported by the BBC, Minister of Security Mahamadou Sana declared the policy change after a cabinet meeting led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader.

“From now on, any citizen from an African country wishing to go to Burkina Faso will not pay any amount to cover visa fees,” said Sana.

However, it was clarified that travelers must still complete an online application for approval before being allowed entry into the country.

Although citizens of West African countries already travel to Burkina Faso without visas, this new decision comes amidst concerns about the country’s status in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Earlier this year, Burkina Faso, along with Mali and Niger, withdrew from the regional bloc, creating uncertainty regarding future travel arrangements.

According to statements from the junta’s information service, the policy aims to “promote tourism and Burkinabe culture, and improve Burkina Faso’s visibility abroad.”

With this initiative, Burkina Faso follows the lead of Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, all of which have adopted visa-free travel policies, in line with the African Union’s agenda for increased continental integration.

Since seizing power in a coup in 2022, Traoré has presented himself as a Pan-Africanist leader, critical of colonialism and Western influence.

His stance has gained him considerable popularity across Africa, particularly on social media, where he is often celebrated for his commitment to African unity.

Despite these progressive policy changes, the nation continues to grapple with a persistent Islamist insurgency, with nearly 40 percent of its territory remaining beyond state control. Attacks on civilians and security forces are frequent, notwithstanding the junta’s efforts to align more closely with Russia and its promises to restore stability.

Source: LEADERSHIP