South Africa May consider Removing Visa Requirement for Ugandans

Ugandan citizens might soon travel to South Africa without needing a visa. This news comes after a recent meeting between Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and Presidential Advisor, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

General Muhoozi traveled to South Africa earlier this week to deliver a message from Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. After the private talks, Muhoozi shared on social media that one of the main topics discussed was visa-free travel for Ugandans.

He hinted that a positive change is on the way, posting, “A solution is coming!” regarding visa-free entry for all Ugandans into South Africa.

Business Community Hopes for Better Opportunities

The idea of removing the visa barrier has received strong support, especially from Uganda’s business sector. Well-known tourism operator Amos Wekesa explained that Ugandan traders face tough challenges when trying to do business in South Africa. While South African investors can easily travel to Uganda, the same is not true for Ugandans, who must go through long visa processes, including heavy paperwork and delays in getting back their passports.

Wekesa also mentioned that South African companies benefit greatly from Uganda’s market. If travel is made easier, it could lead to more balanced trade between the two countries and help local businesses grow.

Africa’s Bigger Visa Problem

The visa issue between Uganda and South Africa is part of a much larger problem across the African continent. According to the Africa Visa Openness Index 2023, only four countries—Rwanda, Benin, The Gambia, and Seychelles—allow all African citizens to enter without a visa.

Even though there has been some progress, 72% of African countries still require visas for most African travelers. Experts say this blocks tourism, trade, and movement of workers. The African Union has urged all African nations to make travel within Africa easier to support economic growth and unity.

Easier travel could also help bring the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to life. AfCFTA aims to boost trade and cooperation between African countries, but strict visa rules are a big roadblock to achieving this goal.

Strengthening Regional Ties Beyond Visas

The meeting between Muhoozi and Ramaphosa didn’t only focus on visas. It also came at a time when there are major security issues in the region, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Although the full details of President Museveni’s message were not shared, experts believe it could be about improving cooperation in security, trade, or diplomatic efforts to handle the region’s challenges.

Muhoozi has been active in regional diplomacy before. He played a major role in repairing Uganda’s relationship with Rwanda, helping to reopen the border between the two countries after a long standoff.

His recent visit to South Africa seems to follow the same path—working to build peace, stronger connections, and economic ties between neighboring nations.