Educate Africa Institute Commends President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, for Scrapping Visa Fees for All African Countries – William Boadi, EAI
The Educate Africa Institute (EAI) has praised Captain Ibrahim Traoré, President of Burkina Faso, for his bold decision to abolish visa fees for all African nationals, calling it a progressive move towards true continental integration and Pan-African unity.
According to William Boadi, Executive Director of EAI, this policy reflects strong leadership and a commitment to breaking down artificial borders that have long hindered the free movement of Africans within their own continent.
The announcement was made following a cabinet meeting chaired by Captain Traoré on Thursday, 11 September, where Burkina Faso’s Minister of Security, Mahamadou Sana, confirmed that African travellers will now be exempt from paying visa fees. However, visitors will still need to apply for entry through an online system for approval.
Boadi highlighted that this initiative mirrors efforts by other African nations such as Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya who have taken similar steps to eliminate visa barriers for fellow Africans. He added that such policies are vital for boosting intra-African trade, tourism, education exchange, and cultural understanding.
While citizens of ECOWAS countries previously enjoyed visa-free travel to Burkina Faso, the country’s recent exit from the regional bloc—alongside Mali and Niger—had cast uncertainty on existing mobility agreements. Despite this, the new policy reinforces Burkina Faso’s broader Pan-African stance, spearheaded by Captain Traoré.
Since assuming power in 2022, Traoré has gained widespread attention across the continent, especially among Pan-African youth, for his strong anti-colonial rhetoric and resistance to foreign interference. His administration says the visa-free policy is part of a broader vision to promote African solidarity, enhance Burkina Faso’s cultural visibility, and attract more tourists and partners from across the continent.
William Boadi concluded by urging other African leaders to emulate this bold step, describing it as a concrete action toward realizing the dream of a united and self-reliant Africa.
We are one people.
Warm Regards
William Boadi
Executive Director of Educate Africa Institute (EAI)
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