Ghana-South Africa, DRC-Uganda: African nations strengthen ties through visa-free travel
Africa’s diplomatic momentum picks up as DRC and Uganda abolish visa entry fees while Ghana and South Africa sign a 90-day tourist exemption—boosting regional mobility and economic ties.
African nations are reinforcing ties through landmark agreements that remove visa barriers across the continent. Among them are the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, alongside Ghana and South Africa. These accords will allow ordinary citizens to travel between these countries without visas or fees, easing cross-border mobility.
DRC and Uganda ease travel with mutual visa fee waivers
During the 8th ordinary session of the High-Level Joint Commission between the DRC and Uganda, held in Kinshasa from October 12–14, both governments reaffirmed their commitment to deepen fraternal bonds between Congolese and Ugandan peoples. Central to the outcome was an agreement to eliminate visa issuance fees as a step toward free movement of people.
Bilateral cooperation expands to security and beyond
The joint session also addressed a robust agenda of shared priorities:
Border security and delimitation
Neutralization of armed groups hostile to either nation
Combating proliferation of small arms and light weapons
Refugee repatriation programs
Decentralized cooperation between bordering local authorities in both countries
After concluding their deliberations, both parties highlighted progress on implementing recommendations from the seventh session five years prior, held in Kampala. To ensure continued momentum, the DRC and Uganda agreed to establish a joint standing follow-up committee within three months to oversee implementation of the latest session’s decisions.
Ghana and South Africa launch 90-day tourist visa waiver
Separately, Ghana and South Africa signed an accord granting visa-free entry for holders of ordinary passports of either country. The exemption allows stays of up to 90 days per year. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the agreement would take effect on 1 November, enabling travelers to enter, transit, or remain in both countries for 90 days without work permits.
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How the accord benefits everyday travelers
Previously, Ghanaian travelers were ineligible for visa on arrival and were required to apply for and obtain visas at the South African embassy in Accra—a process often described as stressful. Comedian OB Amponsah recounted missing a trip to South Africa for a festival in Bloemfontein because of prior visa hurdles. He welcomed the new 90-day visa-free window as a positive step—one that eases tourism despite not covering business travel.
Freedom to move between Ghana and South Africa without visas for up to 90 days annually, including transit
No need to request a visa from the South African embassy in Accra
