Deputy President Kindiki Leads Review of Kenya’s Visa-Free Policy and Travel Authorisation System
Deputy President Kindiki
By John Kariuki
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki today chaired an inter-ministerial meeting in Karen, Nairobi, to assess the effectiveness of Kenya’s visa-free policy and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, one year after their implementation. The policy, which came into effect in January 2024, allows travellers from any country to enter Kenya without a visa, provided they secure an electronic travel authorisation prior to their journey.
The meeting focused on identifying administrative and procedural improvements to enhance the ETA system, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers entering Kenya for business, tourism, or social purposes. Deputy President Kindiki emphasized the significance of the policy in promoting Kenya as a welcoming destination while safeguarding national security.
“This policy has bolstered Kenya’s position as a global hub for travel and trade. Today’s review underscores our commitment to continuously improving the system to make travel to Kenya more convenient and secure,” he said.
The high-level meeting brought together Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior and National Administration), Rebecca Miano (Tourism and Wildlife), Davies Chirchir (Roads and Transport), and Dr. Alfred Mutua (Labour and Social Protection), as well as Principal Secretaries Prof. Julius Bitok (Immigration and Citizen Services), John Ololtuaa (Tourism), Sylvia Museiya (Wildlife), Mohamed Daghar (Transport), Dr. Idris Salim Dokota (Cabinet Affairs), and Teresia Mbaika (Devolution). Other key participants included Evelyn Cheluget (Director General, Immigration and Citizen Services), Amb. Isaac Ochieng (Director General, eCitizen), and Dr. Erastus Kanga (Director General, Kenya Wildlife Service).
Deputy President Kindiki highlighted the importance of balancing openness with security and called for greater efficiency in the ETA system to meet the needs of travellers. The discussions emphasized collaboration among various government departments to streamline processes and align the system with global best practices.
The Deputy President also acknowledged the policy’s positive impact on Kenya’s economy, particularly in tourism. Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano noted the significant increase in tourist arrivals, attributing this growth to the visa-free initiative.
Deputy President Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that Kenya remains an attractive and accessible destination for visitors worldwide, while maintaining robust security measures. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to enhance Kenya’s travel framework, cementing the country’s reputation as a leading destination for business, tourism, and social engagement.
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