Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual and the CEO and Chairman of Dangote Group, has expressed frustration over the stringent visa requirements hindering intra-African travel. Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Dangote highlighted the bureaucratic hurdles he faces, requiring him to obtain 35 different visas for business travel across the continent.
“As an investor who is committed to making Africa great, I am burdened with the need to apply for 35 different visas for my business travels. I simply don’t have the time to constantly visit embassies to obtain visas,” he lamented.
Dangote pointed out the disparity in treatment between African nationals and foreigners, noting that foreign businesspeople often have easier access to travel within Africa. He emphasized that individuals like the CEO of Total Energies don’t face the same visa hurdles, highlighting the unequal treatment in the visa system that favors non-Africans.
The Africa CEO Forum serves as a platform for African leaders, international investors, and institutions to exchange ideas and experiences aimed at fostering business development across the continent. However, visa restrictions continue to pose a significant barrier to achieving seamless business operations.
Presently, only five African countries—Seychelles, Gambia, Benin, Kenya, and Rwanda—offer unrestricted access to travellers from other African nations. Ghana recently joined this list, signaling progress towards greater intra-African mobility.
Dangote’s remarks underscore the urgent need for more African countries to adopt policies that facilitate easier travel for business purposes. Such measures could significantly enhance economic growth and regional integration. As Africa strives for increased investment and development, addressing visa challenges remains a critical priority for policymakers.
