President Ruto Also announced that Kenya has decided to abolish visa requirements for all global visitors beginning January 2024.
Speaking on Tuesday during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, President William Ruto said that the move is in line with Kenya Kwanza’s promise to abolish the requirement of travellers applying for a visa to visit Kenya.
“Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country. It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya,” said Ruto.
The new policy however takes effect beginning January 2024 but travelers will be vetted in advance online since it will be mandatory to obtain electronic travel authorisation.
While describing Kenya as the home of humanity, Ruto said “Kenya is the home of humanity, a scientific fact that fills us with pride and underscores our rich heritage”.
“ It is with great pleasure, as President of this extraordinary country, to make a historic announcement of the decision of the Government of Kenya. Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country” he announced.
President Ruto has been championing the realisation of a borderless Africa by advocating for visa-free travel.
Kenya becomes the second country in Africa to open its borders recently. On November 3, 2023, Rwanda announced visa-free travel for all Africans.