By Ebi Kesiena
Kenyan President William Ruto has announced visa-free entry into the country for all international travelers.
The president made the declaration on Tuesday, December 12, when the country celebrated its 60th year of independence at the Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
According to Ruto, the digital system, kicking off in January 2024, would eliminate the need for visitors to apply for visas, a process that typically takes time.
“Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country. It will no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya,” he said.
The head of state indicated that all visitors entering the country will be required to register on an electronic platform and obtain an electronic travel authorisation.
‘‘To implement this new policy, we have developed a digital platform to ensure that all travellers to Kenya are identified in advance on an electronic platform; consequently, all travellers will obtain electronic travel authorisation as they come to Kenya,” the president noted.
The abolishment is part of a broader embrace of globalisation and the opening of borders to drive the country’s socio-economic development.
However, the president’s announcement has faced criticism from a group of Kenyans, who raised concerns about security and injustice towards citizens travelling abroad.
Doreen Atyang Ekiro said “Oooh, my God,. How about the security of this country plus the citizens? What has Ruto turned this country into? His family or bedroom affairs!”
While Kipyegon Araplangat noted that the President is opening up Kenya for thieves, terrorists, et al.
