Dangote Criticises Visa Restrictions Across Africa, Calls for Easier Movement, Investment
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has criticised the continued visa restrictions and border bottlenecks across Africa, warning that they are slowing down trade, investment, and economic integration on the continent.
Speaking during a conversation with Makhtar Diop, Dangote questioned how Africa could attract meaningful investment while movement across the continent remains difficult.
“If somebody like myself needs 38 visas to move around Africa, how do I invest?” he asked.
The Nigerian billionaire said delays at borders, costly transportation systems, and restrictive visa policies continue to hinder businesses and discourage investors.
According to him, transporting goods between neighbouring African countries can sometimes take weeks because of inefficient border processes and administrative obstacles.
Dangote stressed that Africa cannot achieve true prosperity without the free movement of people, goods, and services, noting that stronger regional integration is essential for economic growth.
He also argued that foreign investors would only have greater confidence in Africa when Africans themselves begin investing more aggressively within the continent.
The comments come amid ongoing discussions around the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to improve intra-African trade and reduce barriers to economic cooperation among African nations.
Dangote Criticises Visa Restrictions Across Africa, Calls for Easier Movement, Investment