In a significant step towards fostering greater African integration, Kenya and Senegal have signed a reciprocal visa waiver agreement, allowing citizens of both nations to travel, stay, or transit for up to 90 days without a visa. The landmark deal was formalised on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting between President William Ruto and his Senegalese counterpart, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

The agreement, which applies to holders of diplomatic, official, and ordinary passports, is expected to significantly enhance people-to-people ties, stimulate tourism, and expand trade and collaboration between the two countries.

Historical and Political Context

President Faye's visit to Kenya, from Sunday, October 19, to Tuesday, October 21, 2025, marked his first official trip to East Africa since assuming office in early 2024. He was the chief guest at Kenya's Mashujaa Day celebrations held on Monday, October 20, 2025, in Kitui County. During the celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium, President Faye joined thousands of Kenyans in honouring national heroes and offered condolences for the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The visa waiver aligns with Kenya's broader foreign policy objectives, which prioritise strengthening bilateral relations, fostering regional integration, and promoting intra-African trade. Kenya has consistently advocated for the free movement of people and goods across the continent, viewing it as crucial for socio-economic and political unity.

Laws, Policy and Governance

The agreement was signed by Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, and Senegal's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Niang, and witnessed by both Presidents. While the visa waiver facilitates easier travel, President Ruto emphasised that the Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) remains a vital platform for ensuring the successful implementation of the agreements.

Kenya is set to host the inaugural JCC meeting in the second half of 2026, which will aim to identify and explore concrete areas of partnership and deepen cooperation across various sectors.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

President Ruto highlighted the importance of the agreement in fostering stronger people-to-people ties and boosting tourism, trade, and collaboration. President Faye echoed these sentiments, describing the deal as a symbol of African unity and mutual respect, reflecting a growing determination among African states to strengthen ties without heavy reliance on external intermediaries.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the goals of the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), frameworks designed to drive industrialisation, trade, and economic integration across the continent.

Evidence/Data

• Visa-Free Travel: Kenyan and Senegalese citizens can now travel visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Agreement Date: Signed on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
• Witnesses: Kenyan President William Ruto and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
• Previous Visa Requirements: Previously, Senegalese citizens required a visa to enter Kenya, and Kenyan citizens generally required a visa for Senegal, though some sources indicate Kenyans did not need a visa for short stays in Senegal.

Risks and Implications

While the visa waiver is a positive step, both countries have indicated that travellers will still need to meet other entry requirements. Kenya, for instance, will continue to require travellers from Senegal to file a free electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before boarding a flight. The leaders also cautioned against illegal overstays, underscoring the need for adherence to immigration regulations.

Unknowns and Controversies

The exact date for the commencement of the new visa-free policy remains to be decided by bureaucrats from both sides through the Joint Commission for Cooperation.

Timeline and Next Steps

• October 19-21, 2025: Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's official visit to Kenya.
• October 20, 2025: President Faye attends Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County as Chief Guest.
• October 21, 2025: Visa waiver agreement signed at State House, Nairobi.
• Second half of 2026: Kenya to host the inaugural Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) meeting.

What to Watch

The operationalisation of the visa waiver and the outcomes of the upcoming Joint Cooperation Commission meeting will be key indicators of the deepening partnership. Further, the two nations have pledged to collaborate on eliminating trade barriers, enhancing transport and digital infrastructure, harmonising standards, and promoting business-to-business engagements. Kenya also seeks to leverage Senegal's expertise in sports development as it prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.