It is expected that AU’s much-vaunted single passport scheme for citizens of its member countries will help ease the free movement of peoples and goods across the continent.
A general passport issued by the African Union appears close to fruition as a date is set for its issuance to continental Africans who crave it, according to a statement seen by APA this weekend.
The AU says its passport will mark a new dawn in the movement of Africans within the continent, dissolving borders, maximising trade opportunities and facilitating unprecedented connectedness and collaboration among peoples of the continent.
It was originally intended to be issued in 2020 but unresolved issues surrounding its features and other logistical challenges prevented its launch that year.
The AU says the issuance of the passports will coincide with marking Africa Liberation Day (May 25th) and contribute seamlessly to this year’s theme; ‘The Year of Education – Educate an African fit for the 21st Century.’
”With its unveiling, the African Union takes a monumental step towards realising its vision of a truly integrated Africa, and a progressive move towards Agenda 2063” according to the statement.
The passport to be issued by the AU will replace those of its 55 member countries whose holders will be exempted from visas for the whole of Africa.
Current Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Chad’s late President Idriss Déby were its main architects.
Meawhile the outgoing AU Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat states that “the AU passport represents a bold step towards realising our vision of a united and integrated Africa. It is a testament to our determination to break down barriers and foster greater cooperation among member states.”
