Government officials, migration experts, and youth leaders are calling for concrete action on the ratification of the African Union’s Free Movement of Persons Protocol.
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) issued a statement following a two-day meeting in Mombasa, convened in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC).
The delegates reviewed and validated a report aimed at enhancing labour mobility and skills recognition in Ghana, Kenya, and Zambia.
Francis Ikome, Chief of the Regional Integration Section at ECA, explained that the report, stemming from a 2023 joint ECA-AUC initiative, challenged the common crisis-driven narrative surrounding African migration.
He emphasised that, while migration was often seen as a global problem, within Africa, it served as a driver of opportunity.
Pointing to ECOWAS, Ikome noted that in spite of recent setbacks in the Sahel, the region had demonstrated that regional integration could succeed not only in trade but also in the movement of people.
The ECA emphasised, “This is not just about ratifying a protocol; it’s about building an Africa where movement drives development, where mobility is a bridge, not a barrier.”
AUC’s Head of Humanitarian Affairs, Rita Amukhobu, supported this view, urging countries like Ghana, Kenya, and Zambia to take the lead, rather than relying solely on regional communities.
“Ghana, Kenya, and Zambia have each taken steps toward easier travel. Ghana has introduced visa-free entry for all African nationals, Kenya is rolling out an e-Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, and Zambia is expanding its visa liberalisation policies.
“These countries have a deep historical connection to Pan-Africanism, and their leadership can inspire a continent-wide shift,” she said.
Kenya’s Principal Immigration Officer, Maureen Kiambuthi, stated that the country was learning from regional experiences and committed to addressing challenges related to the ETA system.
Simon Asare of the Ghana Immigration Service pointed out that Ghana’s experience with ECOWAS had gone beyond entry rights to include residence and establishment.
“Nationals from ECOWAS countries live and work freely in Ghana, and some even receive citizenship,” Asare said.
Walter Kasempa, President of Youth Unite Zambia, emphasised that free movement would particularly benefit Africa’s youth.
“Africa is young. Our youth are creators, workers, and learners, but they must be mobile.
“This protocol opens doors to economic and educational opportunities, skills exchange, remittances, and shared growth,” Kasempa said.
