In a bid to promote tourism and encourage foreign investment, Malawi recently announced visa-free entry for visitors from 79 countries. This decision aims to exploit the country's untapped potential and attract visitors from all over the world.
The reasons behind visa exemption for 79 nationalities
Malawi's President Lazarus Chakwera has announced the lifting of visa requirements for visitors from 79 countries.These include the United States, Great Britain, France, China and Russia. Tourism is the third-largest source of foreign currency for this southern African country, and this measure aims to boost this key sector of the Malawian economy.
UPDATE: Malawi President Dr Lazarus Chakwera removes entry Visa Fees for travellers from 79 countries to boost tourism and trade. In Africa, list includes only Ghana, Gambia & Sierra Leone. pic.twitter.com/lyaY4zCyqu
- The Chronicles (@ChroniclesRW) February 8, 2024
Beneficiaries of this visa waiver
In addition to nationals of the United States, Great Britain, France, China and Russia, 74 other nationalities are concerned by this measure. These include Australia, Canada, Belgium, Germany, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone and many others. In addition, holders of special passes issued by organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union or the African Development Bank are also exempt from visas when on official business.
Validity period of multiple visas
In addition to visa exemption for 79 nationalities, Malawi has also introduced a validity period of up to 12 months for multiple-entry visas.. This measure will make it much easier for tourists and businessmen to travel frequently within the country.
Impact on Malawi's tourism sector
Malawi is a country rich in natural and cultural resources, with abundant wildlife and Lake Malawi, Africa's third largest freshwater lake, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the tourism sector has not yet reached its full potential due to various factors, such as visa restrictions to date.
ยซ Sri Lanka plans to extend visa waiver for Indian tourists Russell Cook runs across Africa... and encounters visa problems ยป