Ghana’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Damptey Bediako Asare has cautioned Ghanaians against traveling to Kenya due to the ongoing protests in the country.
The protests, branded as “7 Days of Rage,” began with street marches against a controversial finance bill proposing new tax hikes. Although initially intended to be peaceful, the demonstrations turned violent on Tuesday when security forces clashed with protesters. The unrest led to the vandalism of state properties and an attack on the Parliament building in Nairobi.
Kenya has traditionally been a popular destination for Ghanaian tourists and, more recently, for business owners exploring opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Initiative, which both Ghana and Kenya have signed.
A few days ago, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration announced that in recognition of the existing visa-free regime agreement between Kenya and Ghana, Ghanaian travellers would now be issued an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) free of charge upon application for travel to Kenya, potentially increasing travel between the two countries.
In an interview with reporters, High Commissioner Damptey Bediako Asare advised travelers to be informed and updated on the current happenings in the country in making their traveling arrangements.
“But concerning Ghanaians travelling to Kenya, either for tourism or business or any other purpose, at this stage, with what is happening, we can only advise that you stay informed.
“If you are already in the country, our advice is that you keep updated with the latest news, particularly from local news outlets and international news platforms.
“If you are still in Kenya, it may be advisable to avoid protest areas,” he said. He also suggested that those planning to travel to Kenya in the coming days contact their travel agents or airlines for guidance and advice.
