Ghana has expanded its visa-free travel policy to include four countries: Mozambique, Samme, Principe, Colombia and the Dominican Federation, in a move aimed at strengthening its global partnerships and strengthening mobility.
Of particular note is the inclusion of two non-African countries: Colombia and the Dominican Federation. Their additions demonstrate Ghana's growth in building diplomacy and developmental connections across the continent.
The agreement was presented to Parliament by Alfred O'Cau Vanderpuyer, chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Committee.
He said the visa waiver is expected to apply to diplomacy, services and regular passport holders, promoting cooperation in education, energy, trade, tourism and agriculture.
According to Vanderpuije, the initiative is part of Ghana's broader strategy to strengthen multilateral relations by facilitating travel and collaboration.
Samuel Okdozet Abrakwa, Minister of Regional Integration and Foreign Minister, also addressed the Parliament, ensuring that visa exemptions will not have a significant impact on the country's revenues.
“While allowing visa fees to be waived, broader economic benefits, particularly in trade and tourism, are expected to significantly outweigh the potential financial impact.”
He described the policy as “part of a long-term strategy to deepen bilateral cooperation and unlock shared socioeconomic benefits.”
This latest move is based on the legacy left by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo before leaving the office and approved visa-free admission for all African citizens.
That decision made Ghana the fifth African nation in Africa, providing unlimited access to African passport holders.
Since President John Dramani Mahama took office in January 2025, his administration has not only maintained its legacy, but has expanded it.
The new visa-free agreement marks a bold step towards broader global engagement, especially with the countries of the Global South.
Officials close to the policy suggest that in the coming months there could be additional countries with particularly strong bilateral relations and mutual trade interests.
“This strategic outreach reflects Ghana's ambitions to establish itself as a gateway to Africa,” one official said, “while strengthening South-South cooperation and economic diplomacy across the continent.”
The expansion of Ghana's visa-free list is expected to promote mutual agreements, making it easier for Ghanaian travelers to access partner countries and boost tourism and trade from home.
Together, these efforts will strengthen Ghana's leadership in promoting free movement and regional integration, not just in Africa but across new global partnerships.
(Business Insider)
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