Africa: Lessons From Kenya’s Bold but Poorly Executed Visa-Free Policy

Kenya’s experience can help countries balance practical realities with Africa’s goal of open borders and regional connections.

In January 2024, Kenya announced it would become a visa-free country for African visitors, as a step towards open borders and regional integration. However, as with many ambitious policies, the challenge lay in execution.

Instead of abolishing visa requirements altogether, Kenya introduced an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system to modernise entry into the country…