Kenya Abolishes Visas for African Travelers, Exempts Somalia and Libya on Security Grounds

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: Kenya has abolished visa requirements for citizens of all African countries and most Caribbean nations, signaling a bold step toward deeper continental integration and economic cooperation. However, travelers from Somalia and Libya remain excluded due to ongoing security concerns.

The sweeping policy change, announced in a cabinet directive and confirmed by the Ministry of Interior, allows African visitors to enter Kenya visa-free for up to 60 days. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries will continue to enjoy six-month stays under regional movement protocols.

“This is a defining moment for Kenya’s leadership in Africa,” Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said. “We are removing outdated barriers to travel, trade, tourism, and academic exchange.”

The policy fulfills President William Ruto’s pledge to dismantle colonial-era visa systems and promote free movement across Africa, a core objective of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

However, Kenya’s Interior Ministry confirmed that nationals from Somalia and Libya will not benefit from the exemption at this stage. Authorities cited national security risks as the reason for maintaining screening protocols for travelers from both countries.

“Kenya remains committed to pan-Africanism, but national security cannot be compromised,” a senior Interior Ministry official told local media. “We will continue to monitor developments in Somalia and Libya and revisit the exemption when conditions improve.”

The policy is expected to boost Kenya’s standing as a regional business and tourism hub, reduce red tape, and strengthen diplomatic ties across the continent. Officials are also introducing a new digital passenger screening system to streamline entry procedures and enhance border security.

Travelers not covered under the exemption will still require Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), with a processing time of up to 72 hours, according to Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok.

Kenya becomes the second African country after Rwanda to implement such a far-reaching visa-free policy, a move analysts say could reshape mobility and regional trade dynamics across the continent.