The governments of Ghana and South Africa have signed a visa waiver agreement for holders of ordinary passports, which will permit citizens to stay in both countries for a period of 90 days within a year.
This new agreement means citizens of both countries without visas can depart from and stay in both countries.
The green light on this new agreement started on November 1, 2023.
This is a significant development for both countries, as it will make it easier and more affordable for people to travel and do business without any stress.
It is also a sign of the growing friendship and cooperation between Ghana and South Africa.
The agreement is expected to boost tourism and trade between the two countries.
Some Ghanaians, in an interview with The Ghana Report, shared their views on the benefits hoped to be reaped in relation to the Ghana and South Africa visa waiver agreement.
The first respondent lauded both governments for the initiative, which has paved the way for Ghanaian and South African citizens to travel without a visa, which often hinders the passion of voyagers who seek to explore other countries.
“Although the number of days is not so much, I think such initiatives should be welcomed because they are good for the African economy. Such initiatives can boost trade in both countries as well as promote other sectors like the tourism industry”.
Another interview noted, “I think it’s a nice initiative because if you have a passport, you can visit both countries to learn something, especially their culture. With the cultural aspect, South Africans can visit Ghana and we as Ghanaians can also visit their country to learn about their language, food, dance, and other important things in both countries. I think it’s fair”.
Solomon Mensah, a renowned publisher who weighed into the Ghana and South Africa visa waiver agreement, said it is time other African countries learn from what Ghana and South Africa have started.
He commended both governments for taking the bold step of initiating such a friendly and cooperative agenda that would benefit all citizens in both countries.
“It is commendable. Africans traveling across Africa should find it as easy as traveling across Europe”.
“I look forward to seeing more African countries sign visa-free deals among themselves”.
The Ghana and South Africa visa waiver agreement will support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which presents a significant prospect for countries in Africa.
Looking forward, the agreement between both countries will have a positive impact on the output of various sectors such as services, manufacturing, and natural resources, which would translate to increased economic growth and development in both countries.