President John Dramani Mahama has said Ghana remains open to Africans, even as some countries on the continent continue to expel fellow Africans.
Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s electronic visa (e-Visa) system on Monday, May 25, the President said Ghana is deliberately choosing a path of openness, integration, and Pan-African solidarity as part of efforts to strengthen continental unity.
“While some countries are expelling fellow Africans, Ghana welcomes them and proudly affirms that this is your home,” he said.
President Mahama explained that the new e-Visa system is part of broader reforms aimed at modernising Ghana’s immigration processes, improving efficiency, and deepening African integration in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
He stressed that Ghana’s approach is not only about easing travel but also about reinforcing the ideals of free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent.
According to him, effective implementation of the African Union’s Free Movement Protocol remains slow, as only a few countries have ratified it so far. He therefore urged African states to demonstrate stronger political will to advance the integration agenda.
The President noted that Ghana has taken a leading role by removing financial barriers for African travellers under the new system, where all African passport holders will apply online for visas without paying visa fees.
He, however, clarified that the policy does not weaken national security, as all applicants will still undergo strict vetting through systems integrated with international security and watchlist databases.
President Mahama said Ghana’s decision reflects the vision of the country’s founding leader, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who championed African unity and the liberation of the continent.
He added that Ghana’s open-door policy is intended to position the country as a hub for investment, tourism, and regional cooperation while strengthening ties with the African diaspora.
The President concluded that Ghana’s approach demonstrates that openness and security can coexist, and urged other African countries to follow suit in advancing the vision of a more connected and united continent.
Source: Mubarak Yakubu
