Kenya, Benin Sign Landmark Visa-Free Travel Deal at UNGA

Nairobi, Kenya — September 25, 2025 (EAT).

Kenya and Benin have signed a historic visa-waiver agreement enabling citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for up to 180 days. The pact was inked on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The Latest

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi signed the agreement with his Beninese counterpart, Oleshegun Adjadi Bakar. The move allows citizens of Kenya and Benin to visit each other’s countries without visas for stays up to six months.

The agreement was announced publicly via Mudavadi’s X post, which read in part:

“Under this framework, citizens of Kenya and Benin will now be able to visit each other’s countries visa-free for up to 180 days, fostering stronger links in tourism, trade and people-to-people exchange.” 

According to reports, the agreement is expected to take effect in October 2025. 

Context in Brief

• The visa waiver is part of growing momentum in Africa toward freer movement across borders, especially among states seeking to deepen continental integration.

• Kenya’s own visa and electronic travel authorisation (eTA) policy has evolved: since January 2024, many visitors to Kenya no longer require traditional visas, instead utilising eTA systems. 

• Benin has existing visa-exemption arrangements with some African nations; this deal further expands its bilateral openness. 

Law, Policy & Implementation

• The agreement reportedly does not grant the right to work or permanently reside; the waiver is limited to travel and short stays. 

• After the 180-day period, travelers will be expected to comply with standard immigration rules of the host country. 

• The waiver will cover holders of valid diplomatic, official, service, or ordinary passports, though diplomatic or official status may be governed by additional national rules. 

Voices & Reactions

• Benin’s Foreign Minister, Oleshegun Adjadi Bakar, praised the agreement as a step toward deeper continental integration and youth mobility:

  “This waiver means that we are integrating the citizens of Africa and helping our youth take advantage of opportunities in Africa.” 

• Media coverage in Kenya framed the pact as a boost for tourism and trade between both countries. 

Evidence & Data

• The term 180 days is emphasized in multiple official and media statements as the length of visa-free stay. 

• The Kenya Times reports the waiver will begin implementation in October 2025. 

• Media reports stress that although travel will be visa-free up to 180 days, work and residency rights are not part of the arrangement. 

Risks, Implications & Scenarios

Implications:

• The agreement may strengthen bilateral tourism, cultural exchange, and business travel between Kenya and Benin.

• It could signal Kenya’s intent to lead on regional mobility initiatives and bilateral diplomatic outreach beyond its immediate region.

Risks & Challenges:

• Ensuring the agreement is fully implemented by immigration authorities and border posts.

• Balancing the ease of movement with immigration control, security, and ensuring no abuse of the waiver.

• Monitoring whether the waiver leads to pressure on consular services, immigration systems, and domestic policy adjustments.

Possible Scenarios:

• Full rollout: The waiver works smoothly within months, leading to increased travel volumes.

• Partial uptake: Some logistical or regulatory delays hinder full implementation.

• Limited impact: If ancillary policies (transport, trade, regulations) are not aligned, the waiver may remain symbolic.

What We Don’t Know Yet

• The precise date of enforcement and operational readiness at border points.

• The administrative procedures (entry checks, immigration clearance, stamps) that will accompany the move.

• How local businesses, immigration agencies, and tourism operators will adapt.

• Whether further visa waivers will follow with other African nations.

Timeline

• September 25, 2025: Agreement announced at UNGA in New York.

• October 2025 (est.): Expected implementation of visa-free travel between Kenya and Benin.

• 2025–2026: Observers will track whether trend of such bilateral visa waivers spreads across Africa.

What to Watch

• Publication of the full agreement text by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs or Interior Ministry.

• Immigration systems updates and instructions for border officials.

• Travel patterns between Nairobi, major Kenyan cities, and cities in Benin.

• Whether similar agreements are signed between Kenya and other African states.