Burkina Faso’s military government has announced it will scrap visa fees for all African nationals, a move aimed at strengthening Pan-African solidarity and encouraging free movement across the continent.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed the decision on Thursday following a cabinet meeting chaired by junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
“From now on, citizens of any African country who wish to travel to Burkina Faso will no longer pay visa fees,” Sana stated. However, visitors must still complete an online application process that remains subject to approval.
The policy places Burkina Faso alongside countries like Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, which have recently introduced similar measures in line with the African Union’s vision of unrestricted intra-African travel.
While citizens of ECOWAS states already enjoyed visa-free access under regional agreements, this development comes after Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger withdrew from ECOWAS, accusing the bloc of serving Western interests. The three Sahel nations are seeking to build new alliances, with closer ties to Russia at the forefront.
Captain Traoré, who came to power through a September 2022 coup, has portrayed himself as a champion of Pan-Africanism, frequently criticizing colonialism and foreign interference. His stance has earned him significant support among Africans disillusioned with Western influence, though critics accuse him of authoritarianism and failing to contain a growing Islamist insurgency that has left nearly 40% of the country beyond government control.
According to a statement from the junta’s information service, the new policy reflects Burkina Faso’s commitment to Pan-African ideals and is expected to promote tourism, showcase Burkinabe culture, and improve the nation’s image internationally.
Despite the gesture, security challenges remain severe, with jihadist attacks reported almost daily in several regions of the country.
