Aliko Dangote, the chairman and chief executive of Dangote Group, has called upon the African Union to establish a visa-on-arrival policy for African nations within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Speaking at the 30th anniversary celebration of the African Export-Import (AFREXIM) Bank in Accra, Ghana, Dangote emphasized that implementing such a policy would facilitate trade and investment across the continent.
During his speech, Dangote shared a personal experience of facing challenges when traveling to another African country, while a Nigerian with a British passport was granted easy entry. He stressed the importance of providing a conducive environment for investors, highlighting that if barriers persist, it becomes difficult for individuals to invest in other countries.
Dangote’s call for a visa-on-arrival policy was supported by a representative from the United States, who acknowledged that the genius of Africa lies in the efforts of institutions like Afrexim Bank. She emphasized that combining demographic potential with productivity is crucial for unlocking transformation and economic growth.
The discussions at the event also underscored the significance of interconnectedness within the African continent, particularly in areas such as trade, food, and security. Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka added his perspective, highlighting the power of language in fostering economic development, science, education, and understanding. He emphasized that language not only impacts livelihoods but also influences the collective psyche of communities, either bringing people together or creating divisions.
The event served as a platform for recognizing the need for cooperation and collaboration to drive Africa’s growth and prosperity. By prioritizing connectivity and removing barriers to trade and movement, African nations can foster a conducive environment for innovation, investment, and economic progress.
