Kenya to Become a Visa-Free Country, President Ruto Announces

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: Kenya’s Presiednt William Ruto has announced plans to abolish visa requirements for all visitors starting January 2024, making it a visa-free country.

This will bring to an end the need to apply for a visa to visit the country to all citizens of the world.

The move comes hot on the heels of the announcement by the Kenyan leader that the East African nation was to open her borders for visa-free travel by Africans at the end of December 2023.

Speaking on Tuesday during the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, the president said starting January 2024, the government will abolish the requirement of visas for all visitors coming to Kenya.

“It is with great pleasure, as president of this extraordinary country, to make a historic announcement of the decision of the Government of Kenya. Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country,” Ruto said.

The effect of the landmark move means it will no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the world to apply for a visa to enter Kenya.

To implement the new policy, he said the state has developed a digital platform to ensure that all travelers to Kenya are identified in advance on an electronic platform.

This means that all travelers will only need to obtain electronic travel authorisation before visiting the country which is known for its tourist attraction sites.

 “It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya. To echo the call of the Turkana people to the world: “Tobong’u Lorre!” Kenya has a simple message to humanity: Welcome Home!” Ruto said.