Burkina Faso’s military government has announced the introduction of a free visa policy for all African nationals, a move aimed at strengthening Pan-African ties and advancing regional integration.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana disclosed the decision on Thursday after a cabinet meeting chaired by junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré, according to BBC News.
“From now on, any citizen from an African country wishing to go to Burkina Faso will not pay any amount to cover visa fees,” Sana said. He explained that visitors will still be required to complete an online application, which remains subject to approval.
The initiative aligns Burkina Faso with countries such as Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, which have recently eased travel restrictions for Africans in support of the African Union’s free movement agenda.
Until now, citizens of West African states had enjoyed visa-free access under ECOWAS protocols. However, the new measure comes months after Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger withdrew from the regional bloc, accusing it of prioritising Western interests over African unity.
The junta described the policy as an expression of its Pan-Africanist ideals and said it is expected to boost tourism, promote Burkinabe culture, and improve the country’s international visibility.
The announcement comes as Burkina Faso continues to face a deepening Islamist insurgency, with large areas of the country outside government control.