Ghana has expanded its visa-free travel policy to include four countries?Mozambique, S?o Tom? and Pr?ncipe, Colombia, and the Commonwealth of Dominica?in a move aimed at strengthening global partnerships and enhancing mobility.

Of particular note is the inclusion of Colombia and the Commonwealth of Dominica, two non-African countries. Their addition signals Ghana?s growing intent to forge diplomatic and developmental ties beyond the continent.

The agreements were presented to Parliament by Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Committee.

He stated that the visa waivers apply to holders of diplomatic, service, and ordinary passports and are expected to foster cooperation in education, energy, trade, tourism, and agriculture.

According to Vanderpuije, the initiative is part of Ghana?s broader strategy to strengthen multilateral relationships through easier travel and collaboration.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, also addressed Parliament, assuring that the visa waivers will not significantly affect the country?s revenue.

?While acknowledging that visa fees will be waived,? Ablakwa said, ?the broader economic benefits, particularly in trade and tourism, are expected to significantly outweigh any potential fiscal impact.?

He described the policy as ?part of a long-term strategy to deepen bilateral cooperation and unlock shared socio-economic advantages.?

This latest move builds on a legacy left by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who before leaving office, approved visa-free entry for all African nationals.

That decision made Ghana the fifth African country to offer unrestricted access to holders of African passports.

Since President John Dramani Mahama took office in January 2025, his administration has not only maintained that legacy but also expanded it.

The new visa-free agreements mark a bold step toward broader global engagement, particularly with nations in the Global South.

Officials close to the policy suggest that more countries may be added in the coming months, especially those with strong bilateral ties or mutual trade interests.

?This strategic outreach reflects Ghana?s ambition to position itself as a gateway to Africa,? one official said, ?while also strengthening South-South cooperation and economic diplomacy beyond the continent.?

Ghana?s expanded visa-free list is expected to encourage reciprocal agreements, making it easier for Ghanaian travellers to access partner countries while boosting tourism and trade at home.

Together, these efforts reinforce Ghana?s leadership in promoting free movement and regional integration?not just within Africa, but across emerging global partnerships. (Nigerian Tribune)

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