Libreville, 16 July 2026 – President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno of Chad has announced the abolition of visa requirements for all African nationals, effective from 1 January 2027.
The landmark decision was revealed at the opening of the African Water Forum in N’Djamena, Chad’s capital, where the President emphasized the measure as part of Chad’s commitment to fostering African integration and facilitating the free movement of people and goods across the continent.
The move, which places Chad in a select group of African nations that have eliminated visa requirements for their fellow continentals, is seen as a significant step towards the realization of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It follows the lead of countries such as the Benin, Togo, Rwanda, Ghana, the Gambia, and the Seychelles, which have already taken similar actions.
The President’s announcement is expected to bolster regional integration, increase trade, and enhance tourism, positioning Chad as a key transport and business hub within Africa.
The decision is also in alignment with the broader trend of visa facilitation across the continent, reflecting a shared objective of promoting economic cooperation and cultural exchange.
The implementation details of the visa abolition have not yet been disclosed, but the move is anticipated to have a considerable impact on the movement of people and goods across Africa, potentially leading to increased economic activity and cultural exchange.
As Chad joins other African countries in supporting intra — African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the announcement has been warmly received and is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for further regional cooperation and development.
The African Water Forum provided an opportune platform for African leaders to discuss strategies for sustainable water management and cooperation, highlighting the importance of water resources in the context of African integration. Chad’s decision to abolish visas for African nationals is a bold move that could potentially reshape the economic and cultural landscape of the continent.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
