By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
The Challenge of African Travel Restrictions
At the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali on May 17, Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote highlighted the difficulties he faces traveling across Africa compared to Europeans. He emphasized the continent’s fragmented visa regime, noting that he needs 35 visas to travel freely within Africa. This contrasts sharply with the ease of movement enjoyed by Europeans, like Patrick Pouyanne, CEO of Total Energies, who faces no such barriers.
Impact on African Migrants
For African migrants, stringent visa requirements are more than an inconvenience; they are significant obstacles to achieving safety, stability, and prosperity. These restrictive visa regimes stifle economic development and hinder the realization of African unity.
A Different Past: The 1990s
In the 1990s, African migration was much more fluid. My father’s butchery and liquor store in Harare, Zimbabwe, served a diverse clientele, including Mozambican traders. Harare was then a thriving, multicultural city, welcoming entrepreneurs from Central and West Africa who introduced new goods to the market.
A Vibrant Pan African Community
At Prince Edward High School in Harare, I experienced a vibrant pan African community with teachers and students from across the continent. The city's streets bore the names of renowned African freedom fighters, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared history.
The Decline of Inclusivity
However, this inclusive atmosphere has deteriorated. Zimbabwe, along with other African nations, has enacted legislation that discriminates against African migrants.
In 2013, Zimbabwe threatened to close foreign owned shops in sectors reserved for locals and later restricted business ownership in several sectors to Zimbabwean citizens only.
Similar policies have emerged in Botswana, South Africa, and other countries, targeting African migrants and limiting their economic opportunities.
Departure from African Unity
These policies represent a significant departure from the African unity envisioned by the founders of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU). Despite the AU adopting the Free Movement of Persons (FMP) Protocol in 2018 to facilitate visa free entry and residency across member states:
Only 33 of the 55 member states have signed it.
Just four countries have ratified it.
Lessons from the Past
The observations made by Dangote and the experiences of African migrants highlight systemic issues undermining the African dream. In my youth, I witnessed how migrants contributed positively to Zimbabwe’s economy and society. They did not displace local businesses but introduced new practices and integrated seamlessly into the community.
Call to Action
Dangote's statement in Kigali serves as a call to action for African leaders. To achieve true unity and economic growth, Africa must:
Overcome its internal divisions.
Embrace the principles of free movement and open markets.
Following the European Union's example, Africa can transform its economic landscape by facilitating the free movement of its people. Politicians and citizens alike must heed this wake up call to build a more united and prosperous continent.