By Obinna Ezugwu

Togo has introduced a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of all African countries, becoming the latest nation on the continent to ease travel restrictions in support of regional integration and free movement.

The new policy, which took effect on Monday, allows Africans holding valid passports to enter Togo without obtaining visas in advance, according to the country’s Ministry of Security.

Announcing the development on Tuesday, Calixte Madjoulba said the decision aligns with the government’s broader objective of strengthening African unity, boosting economic cooperation and encouraging easier movement across the continent.

He said the measure reflects the commitment of Togolese authorities to deepen African integration while positioning the country as a strategic regional hub for trade, services, tourism and cultural exchange.

“It is part of the policy of openness, modernization and attractiveness initiated by the President of the Council, with the ambition of making Togo a regional centre for business, culture and human exchange in Africa,” Madjoulba stated.

Despite the visa exemption, the minister stressed that travellers would still be required to comply with immigration, security and public health regulations before entering the country.

Under the new arrangement, African travellers must complete a travel declaration at least 24 hours before arrival in order to obtain a document that must be presented at border entry points.

Madjoulba explained that the document serves as a mandatory administrative and security requirement designed to regulate entry procedures.

He also warned that the policy does not permit irregular migration, illegal residence or violations of national security regulations. 

According to the ministry, the visa-free access will apply across all entry channels, including land borders, airports and seaports.

The move places Togo among a growing number of African countries adopting more liberal travel policies for citizens of African Union member states.

Countries such as Rwanda and Kenya have previously implemented similar visa-free arrangements aimed at promoting continental mobility and economic integration.

The initiative also aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 framework and the African passport project, both of which advocate freer movement of Africans across the continent, although implementation has remained uneven among member states.

Last week, Nigeria announced a reciprocal 30-day visa-free entry arrangement for Rwandan citizens following Rwanda’s earlier policy decision. Business Hallmark