ITUC-Africa hails Kenyan President’s commitment to African integration, calls for more action

The African Regional Organisation of International Trade Union Confederation ( ITUC-Africa), has eulogised Kenyan President, William Ruto Samuel, for his commitment for African integration and progress.

ITUC-Africa, said the commendation was necessitated by the recent announcement and subsequent implementation of the abolition of visa requirements for all visitors to Kenya, effective January 2024, made by the President. The African trade unions’ body however appealed to President Ruto to consider ratifying the Africa Union Free Movement of People protocol (AU-FMP).

A letter signed by its General Secretary, Comrade Akhator Joel Odigie, ITUC-Africa said President Ruto’s decisive action in making Kenya a visa-free country signifies a monumental step towards fostering Pan-Africanism and facilitating free movement across borders.

The letter in part reads; “By eliminating visa requirements for visitors regardless of their global origins, your government has demonstrated a commitment to unity, integration and progress within the African continent.

“This bold decision aligns harmoniously with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) vision, accentuating the importance of allowing the free movement of goods and people. We firmly believe that such an initiative will enhance economic growth and enable African citizens to harness the AfCFTA’s benefits fully.

“Moreover, we request your government to consider ratifying the Africa Union Free Movement of People protocol (AU-FMP). Embracing this protocol will further solidify the efforts towards fostering intercontinental unity and collaboration, enabling the African populace to experience enhanced opportunities for growth and development.

“Furthermore, Kenya is among the 14 African champions of the Global Compact on Migration (GCM). Therefore, ratifying the AU-FMP is a fitting and marked commitment towards championing pro-rights migration governance.”

“Mr President, our organisation – ITUC-Africa, will continue to encourage and canvass other African nations to emulate the examples of some African countries, notably Benin Republic, Rwanda, Mauritius, Seychelles and Kenya, that have taken this laudable initiative to improve visa openness.

“By uniting in similar endeavours, Africa will undoubtedly witness a more integrated and prosperous future, benefiting the workforce and the entire African citizenry.

“We express our unwavering support and enthusiasm for your vision of a more united Africa and extend our commitment to collaborate and support initiatives that promote unity, integration, and progress for the continent”.