Island Nations Lead African Passport Rankings, Others Urged to Boost Mobility
In the latest edition of the Global Passport Index, the Seychelles and Mauritius have maintained their positions as the most powerful passports in Africa, granting holders visa‑free or visa‑on‑arrival access to 149 and 147 countries respectively. The rankings, released on Thursday, reaffirm the two island nations' diplomatic reach and economic resilience. Meanwhile, other African states such as Kenya, Rwanda, and Ghana lag behind, highlighting a gap in global mobility.
The Passport Index evaluates passports based on the number of destinations a citizen can enter without a pre‑arranged visa. Seychelles and Mauritius have consistently topped the list since 2018, thanks to robust tourism sectors and stable political environments. In contrast, many mainland African countries have struggled to improve their scores due to bureaucratic hurdles, limited diplomatic outreach, and fluctuating political stability.
Experts point out that sustained tourism growth and sound governance are key drivers behind the islands' success. Dr. Aisha Mohammed, a senior researcher at the African Development Bank, notes that high tourism inflows generate foreign currency reserves that can be invested in diplomatic missions and visa‑waiver agreements. Additionally, transparent administrative processes reduce the risk perceived by foreign governments, facilitating reciprocal visa arrangements.
The strength of a passport carries significant regional implications. Citizens of Seychelles and Mauritius can travel more freely, attracting foreign investment and fostering business ties across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. For Ethiopia, improving passport rankings could enhance the competitiveness of its diaspora, encourage outbound tourism, and open new markets for Ethiopian goods, especially in the burgeoning tech and agriculture sectors.
Looking ahead, several African governments have announced reforms aimed at boosting their passport scores, including streamlined visa procedures and increased diplomatic outreach. Observers will watch how these measures translate into tangible gains, particularly for countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria. The next Passport Index release in 2025 will reveal whether sustained policy changes can close the mobility gap and unlock new economic opportunities for the continent.