East African Community member states, except Tanzania and Burundi, will from next January begin using a common tourist visa.
This was announced by Cabinet Secretary for East
African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Phyllis Kandie, Uganda Tourism and
Wildlife minister Agnes Egunyo and Rwanda’s High Commissioner to UK
William Nkurunzi at the ongoing World Tourism Market expo in London.
The visa is expected to facilitate free movement of tourists and enhance regional integration.
“We have been in discussion over this matter for
the last six months and we are proud today to announce that we finally
have a joint visa,” said Ms Kandie.
“This is an opportunity for us to increase tourist numbers as we will jointly offer diversified tourism products.”
Long overdue
She said that tourism products from the three
countries were varied, meaning the single visa plan would give tourists
an opportunity to sample a variety of attractions.
However, the effectiveness of the move in view of Tanzania’s exclusion could be limited.
“Other EAC members will join us along the way
since we have not locked any one out,” said Ms Kandie while responding
to the press questions on the absence of Tanzania in the deal.
Mr Nkurunzi said the joint visa plan was cost
effective and would play a critical in repositioning tourism products in
the region.
Kenya Tourist Board managing director Muriithi
Ndegwa said the move was timely coming at a time Kenya is tapping into
the regional market to grow its tourism sector.
“The single visa is long overdue; it will not only
ease movement within the member states but would also allow the
tourists to maximise value for money,” said Mr Ndegwa.
SOURCE: AFRICA REVIEW
SOURCE: AFRICA REVIEW
