Dangote Says He Needs 35 Visas To Travel In Africa

Scott Simon

less than a minute read

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10-01-2025

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Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, recently lamented the bureaucratic hurdles he faces traveling across the continent. In a statement that highlighted the frustrating realities of intra-African travel, Dangote revealed he requires a staggering 35 different visas to conduct business throughout Africa.

The Visa Burden: A Continental Conundrum

Dangote's comments underscore a persistent challenge hindering Africa's economic integration and growth: the complex and often burdensome visa requirements between African nations. While initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aim to streamline trade and movement of people, the reality on the ground remains far from seamless. The need for multiple visas represents a significant barrier to both business and tourism, impacting not just high-profile individuals like Dangote, but countless others.

A Barrier to Progress

The requirement for numerous visas creates significant logistical and financial burdens. It increases travel time, costs, and administrative complexity. This directly impacts trade, investment, and people-to-people interaction, ultimately slowing down economic development across the continent. The lack of visa-free travel hinders the free flow of goods, services, and talent – crucial elements for a thriving integrated market.

Beyond Individual Inconvenience: Broader Implications

Dangote's experience highlights a wider issue. The complexity of intra-African travel discourages both foreign and domestic investment. Businesses are less likely to invest in countries with difficult visa processes, fearing logistical nightmares and delays. This impacts job creation and overall economic growth. Furthermore, the cumbersome visa regime acts as a significant barrier to tourism, limiting the potential for revenue generation and job opportunities in the hospitality sector.

The Path Forward: Towards Seamless Mobility

The African Union's push for a single African passport is a significant step toward addressing this problem. However, implementation remains a challenge, requiring political will and collaborative effort from all member states. Streamlining visa processes, promoting visa reciprocity, and fostering greater cooperation between African nations are crucial steps toward creating a more integrated and prosperous continent. Dangote's experience serves as a potent reminder of the urgent need for change. The true potential of the African market can only be unlocked when the movement of people and goods is simplified and facilitated.