As the African Development Bank (AfDB) charts a bold course for the continent under its Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), one theme stands out: integration. Under the leadership of the outgoing AfDB president, the High5s initiative placed regional cohesion at the forefront, with visa openness identified as a critical catalyst for unlocking Africa’s full potential.

Despite Africa’s vast economic and human capital, restrictive visa policies have long impeded cross-border mobility, limiting opportunities for business, entrepreneurship, and professional development – particularly among the continent’s youth. Removing these barriers is not just symbolic; it is strategic.

Streamlining travel can create an enabling environment that boosts intra-African trade, drives industrialization, and expands employment prospects across sectors.

Across the continent, progress is already underway. Since 2016, numerous bilateral agreements have been signed to ease travel, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access between partner nations.

Regional blocs such as ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), CEMAC (Economic Community of Central African States), and SADC (Southern African Development Community) have taken the lead by implementing visa-free entry within their regions. For instance, in CEMAC, citizens of member countries like Gabon and Chad enjoy unrestricted movement.

Similarly, SADC members including Botswana and Eswatini offer visa-free access to fellow nationals. In West Africa, ECOWAS countries such as Ghana, Guinea, and Senegal have embraced this model, facilitating seamless travel for millions.

A Model for Pan-African Cooperation: The Ghana-Morocco Agreement

A landmark agreement between Ghana and Morocco exemplifies the growing momentum behind pan-African cooperation. The visa-free pact allows citizens of both nations to travel freely, opening new avenues for cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and talent development – particularly in sports.

Ghana, long known for its rich sporting heritage, continues to produce world-class athletes but faces persistent challenges due to inadequate infrastructure. Meanwhile, Morocco has emerged as a rising force in global sports, epitomized by its historic run to fourth place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup – a performance that captured the pride of an entire continent.

Morocco’s success stems from sustained investment in sports infrastructure and comprehensive talent development programs. The country’s recent selection to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal further cements its status as a global player in sports.

The Ghana-Morocco agreement presents a unique opportunity for synergy. Ghanaian athletes can now train and compete in Morocco’s well-developed sporting ecosystem, avoiding the bureaucratic hurdles that often stifle international aspirations.

This partnership could serve as a blueprint for other African nations seeking to leverage each other’s strengths.

Toward a Borderless and Unified Africa

Ultimately, the broader vision of a borderless Africa holds transformative promise. By fostering alliances, sharing expertise, and embracing open borders, African nations can accelerate development and unlock unprecedented growth.

The ripple effects of such integration may be more profound than many anticipate – ushering in a new era of unity, prosperity, and global influence.

Congratulations to Ghana and Morocco for taking this bold step forward in the journey toward a more connected and empowered Africa.