Move signals deeper regional integration and support for intra-African travel
In a major development for regional mobility, Kenya has officially scrapped the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for South African passport holders, along with nationals from several other Southern African countries. The change, now reflected on the official ETA website, marks the implementation of a government directive aimed at easing travel across the continent.
The exemption extends beyond South Africa to include passport holders from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, and Botswana. Travellers from these countries no longer need to apply for an ETA prior to entering Kenya, a move expected to significantly boost tourism, business travel, and cultural exchange.
At the beginning of 2025, Kenya had announced plans to ease travel restrictions for African nations in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which promotes free movement of people across the continent. However, the timeline for implementation had remained unclear—until now.
The latest update reflects Kenya’s growing commitment to regional integration and its recognition of the importance of intra-African travel as a driver of economic growth. The move is particularly timely as Kenya continues to position itself as a central hub for East and Southern Africa.
Tourism stakeholders across the region have welcomed the decision, noting that it not only enhances ease of travel but also signals a broader political will to reduce travel barriers among African nations.
Travellers from the newly exempt countries are still advised to carry valid passports and check any health or customs requirements prior to travel. All other nationalities are encouraged to verify entry rules via Kenya’s official ETA platform at www.etakenya.go.ke.
This policy shift is expected to contribute positively to Kenya’s tourism numbers and foster deeper people-to-people connections within the continent.
Source : Travel News
