Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual, has expressed his frustration over the strict visa requirements that make traveling within Africa difficult.
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As CEO and Chairman of Dangote Group, Dangote emphasized the bureaucratic obstacles he faces, needing to secure 35 different visas for business travel across the continent.
During the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, he shared his grievances, saying he does not have time to visit embassies repeatedly to obtain visas.
He highlighted the unfair treatment between African nationals and foreigners, noting that foreign businesspeople often find it easier to move around.
Dangote pointed out that a French passport holder, like Total Energies CEO Patrick Pouyanné, does not need 35 visas to travel within Africa, underscoring the bias in the visa system that favors non-Africans.
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The Africa CEO Forum is a significant event that gathers African leaders and international investors to promote business development through idea exchange.
Despite its goals, visa restrictions remain a major hurdle. Currently, only five African countries—Seychelles, Gambia, Benin, Kenya, and Rwanda—allow unrestricted access to travelers from other African nations.
Recently, Ghana joined this list, marking a step forward in easing travel barriers.
Dangote’s comments highlight the urgent need for more African countries to adopt policies that simplify business travel.
This change could boost economic growth and regional integration. As Africa seeks increased investment and development, addressing visa issues is crucial for policymakers.
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