The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa), which represents over 18 million workers across 52 African countries, has commended the Government of Kenya for its historic move to eliminate visa requirements for African nationals.
In a statement released by its General Secretary, Akhator Joel, ITUC-Africa described the policy as a “bold commitment to regional unity, African solidarity, economic integration, and people-centred development.” The visa exemption, which is now in effect for nearly all African countries—excluding Somalia and Libya—has been lauded as a progressive shift towards greater continental cohesion.
According to the statement, ITUC-Africa welcomed the Kenyan government’s transition from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, calling it a “bold and imaginative step forward.” The organisation expressed hope that this development would serve as an inspiration for other African nations to adopt similar measures that enhance the free movement of people across the continent.
ITUC-Africa further noted that under the new visa-free regime, African citizens can enter and stay in Kenya for varying durations—ranging from 30 days to 60 days, and up to six months for nationals of East African Community (EAC) member states.
The union acknowledged other African countries that have taken active steps to implement the African Union Free Movement Protocol, including Rwanda, Mauritius, Senegal, Benin Republic, and Ghana.
Kenya’s visa-free policy was formally announced through Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 73, issued as Legislative Supplement No. 44 under Legal Notice No. 93. The directive was made on May 30, 2025, and signed by Mr. Kipchumba Murkomen, Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration.
