President Ruto’s Transit Visa Plan: A Solution or a Band-Aid?
Kenya has found itself in the bottom ten African countries for visa openness, ranking 46th out of 54 nations in the Africa Visa Openness Index (AVOI) 2024. The dismal score of 0.113 reflects the country’s restrictive policies that hinder ease of travel for African citizens.
The AVOI measures how accessible African countries are to travelers from the continent, evaluating factors like visa-free access, ease of obtaining visas, and efficiency in processing applications. High visa fees and sluggish application processes have contributed to Kenya’s low ranking.
CNN journalist Larry Madowo criticized Kenya’s policies, stating, “In May, I explained to President Ruto why the ETA isn’t working as he promised. He insisted that Kenya is now visa-free even though it isn’t. Now we have data with receipts to prove my point.”
By comparison, Rwanda leads East Africa in openness, offering free visas upon arrival for citizens from African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie nations for stays under 30 days. Rwanda’s efficient e-visa system and user-friendly processes contrast starkly with Kenya’s drawn-out application timelines and unclear guidelines.
Neighboring Uganda has also made strides by reducing visa processing times and embracing electronic visas. The trend of streamlining processes in Africa highlights Kenya’s growing gap in competing as a travel destination.
The report noted that unclear instructions and insufficient support during the visa application process deter potential visitors to countries with restrictive policies. Additionally, high fees have dissuaded many travelers from considering Kenya as a viable option.
Despite its low ranking, Kenya’s government has taken small steps toward improvement. President William Ruto announced in October the introduction of the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorization. This initiative allows passengers with layovers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to explore Nairobi and nearby areas without requiring a visa.
“Travellers at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) with time between connection flights will therefore now be able to immerse themselves in Magical Kenya instead of waiting at the terminals,” Ruto stated.
However, with 17 African countries improving their AVOI scores this year alone, Kenya risks being left behind in a continent striving for greater travel openness and accessibility.
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President Ruto’s Transit Visa Plan: A Solution or a Band-Aid?
