“Ghana Unveils 46-Day Visa-on-Arrival Extravaganza to Ignite Diaspora Connections and Boost Tourism”
In a festive initiative designed to spur tourism and strengthen bonds with the diaspora, Ghana has announced a 46-day visa-on-arrival program for visitors, effective from December 1, 2023, to January 15, 2024.
Throughout this period, travelers to Ghana will enjoy the convenience of obtaining visas upon arrival, eliminating the need for pre-travel visa arrangements. This strategic move is an integral part of the Ghanaian government’s visionary 10-year ‘Beyond The Return’ campaign, crafted to inspire Africans in the diaspora to rediscover and reconnect with Ghana. The overarching objective is to establish Ghana as a premier destination for individuals of African descent.
The collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry for the Interior, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ghana Immigration Service, and the Ghana Tourism Authority have paved the way for the approval of this visa-on-arrival initiative.
A statement from the Ministry of Transport underscored the importance of updating systems to accommodate this new arrangement. It also urged those responsible for checking in passengers bound for Ghana not to insist on entry visas before boarding.
Foreign Affairs Minister Ayorkor Botchwey recently hinted at Ghana’s serious contemplation of allowing all Africans and people of African descent in the diaspora to enter the country visa-free. Currently, Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin stand as the only African nations offering visa-free entry for all African citizens.
Minister Botchwey emphasized the significance of drawing individuals of African descent from across the globe to Ghana. Initiatives such as the Year of Return and Beyond The Return have transformed the country into a pilgrimage destination, further highlighting the commitment to fostering connections and creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.
The move to implement a visa-free entry for Africans aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to deepen connections with the diaspora and position itself as a welcoming and accessible hub.
As the government explores this possibility, it reflects a strategic effort to boost tourism, enhance cultural exchange, and celebrate the shared heritage of people of African descent across the globe.
The official announcement regarding visa-free entry for Africans is anticipated soon, with the government expressing its commitment to making Ghana an even more inviting destination for visitors.
