President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana will introduce a free visa regime for all African nationals travelling to the country, in a move aimed at strengthening continental integration and boosting economic opportunities.
The policy, which will take effect on May 25, 2026—coinciding with the celebration of Africa Day—will allow African travellers to obtain e-visas at no cost before arriving in Ghana.
The announcement was made during a state visit by Zimbabwe’s President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, as both countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral and regional cooperation.
According to President Mahama, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to position Ghana as a leading hub for Pan-Africanism, while unlocking opportunities in tourism and intra-African trade.
“I’m also pleased to announce that effective 25th May 2026, when we commemorate Africa Day, Ghana will commence a free visa regime for all Africans. Africans traveling to Ghana will receive their e-visas online free of charge.
“But between Ghana and Zimbabwe, we have a visa-free environment already. You can travel to each other’s countries without needing a visa. You just hop onto the plane and arrive in each other’s country,” he said.
The President further revealed that the visa-free entry policy will be integrated into a broader e-visa system expected to be rolled out next month under his administration, aimed at simplifying travel procedures and enhancing accessibility.
He also indicated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will intensify diplomatic engagements to secure additional visa waiver agreements for Ghanaian passport holders, making it easier for citizens to travel across the continent and beyond.
Meanwhile, Ghana and Zimbabwe used the occasion to strengthen their bilateral ties by signing 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), covering areas of mutual interest as both nations seek to expand cooperation and economic partnership.
The policy is expected to significantly ease travel across Africa and reinforce Ghana’s role in advancing continental unity and mobility.
