In Europe, freedom of movement is almost taken for granted, and Europeans can move freely within the countries within the EU. Not only as tourists, but also to settle, work and own property in other EU countries. This is not the case on the African continent, but it opens up more freedom of movement for the population of Africa. In autumn 2023, Kenya decided that all Africans can enter the country without a visa. Thus, Kenya joined Benin, Gambia and Seychelles. A month later, Rwanda has done the same. And although now only five of the continent’s 54 countries allow it, it shows a tendency towards more mobility for the African population. – Freedom of movement is extremely important, because it unites people, says Michael Mulei Mutava, who researches migration at New South University in Johannesburg, South Africa. – The colonists divided Africa and divided societies by drawing borders. It is the same people who speak the same language and have the same culture, but they are divided, he says. Regional agreements Freedom of movement in Africa is a crucial objective for the African Union, which in some respects can be seen as Africa’s answer to the EU. The Union has existed since 2002 with the aim of creating peace, stability and a sustainable economy on the African continent. In 2018, the Union presented a protocol for freedom of movement, in which around 30 countries signed the protocol, but only five countries have had it approved in the country’s parliament. – It is not surprising that Kenya took the step and opened up the country. What should be surprising is why the other countries do not take this step, says Mutava, referring to the agreement from 2018. The overall plan is moving very slowly, but Mutava still sees progress. – There is development within regions which is encouraging. For example, between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda, he says. Several countries make agreements with their neighboring countries on entry rules. Among other things, between Botswana and Namibia, but also between South Africa and Ghana, which do not border each other. – These measures are steps on the way, says Mutava, towards freedom of movement in Africa.
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The African countries are moving closer together: – Encouraging development, says researcher
