Kagame Urges Africa to Open Skies and Borders to Unlock Economic Growth | Rwandan President Paul Kagame has called for greater cooperation among African nations, urging governments to harmonise regulations, liberalise visa regimes and improve air connectivity to accelerate economic growth and regional integration.
Speaking at the African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 in Lomé, Kagame said Africa’s ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can only be realised if countries work together to eliminate barriers that restrict the movement of people, goods and services.
The Rwandan leader stressed that a truly integrated African market requires common standards and predictable regulatory frameworks across borders.
“A single market works best when rules and standards are predictable and consistent across jurisdictions. The institutions mandated to lead this work already exist, and they deserve our support. The same principle applies to visa policies,” Kagame said.
His remarks come as African governments and aviation stakeholders intensify efforts to advance the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship African Union initiative aimed at creating a more connected and competitive aviation sector across the continent.
Rwanda has often been cited as one of Africa’s leading examples of visa liberalisation, allowing citizens of all African countries to obtain visas on arrival. Kagame said the policy has generated tangible economic benefits.
“In Rwanda, we removed this particular barrier because we wanted people to visit, connect and discover opportunities. And as we know, it is just the right thing to do. We saw stronger business activity, increased tourism, and expanded air links,” he noted.
According to Kagame, Africa cannot achieve its development objectives if nations continue to operate independently rather than as part of a larger continental market.
“Experience, therefore, shows us that openness and cooperation are powerful drivers of development. No single region has unlocked its potential while remaining fragmented. Air connectivity opens immense opportunities and possibilities,” he added.
Industry leaders attending the conference echoed Kagame’s position, arguing that improved air transport connectivity is essential for boosting intra-African trade, attracting investment, promoting tourism and enabling the free movement of entrepreneurs and professionals.
Kagame Urges Africa to Open Skies and Borders to Unlock Economic Growth | AviationGhana
