Dialogue on Continental Free Movement Takes Place in Accra

Ghana Hosts National Dialogue to Advance AU Free Movement of Persons Protocol

Ghana has taken a significant step forward in its efforts to accelerate the ratification of the African Union’s Free Movement of Persons (AU FMP) Protocol by organizing a two-day National Dialogue in Accra. This event brought together a wide range of stakeholders to deepen collaboration and strengthen regional momentum for the protocol’s implementation.

The dialogue was organized by the Ministry of the Interior in partnership with the Coalition of CSOs in Migration, Ghana (CCMG), with additional support from the German Development Cooperation and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). The goal was to foster a shared understanding of the importance of free movement and to identify strategies for overcoming challenges in the ratification process.

Key Stakeholders Engage in Critical Discussions

Participants included representatives from the African Union, the Ministry of the Interior, GIZ Ghana, ICMPD, IOM Ghana, members of the CSOs Coalition on Migration Ghana, and various government institutions. Their collective input aimed to build a stronger foundation for national and regional cooperation on migration governance and integration.

Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, emphasized Ghana’s commitment to regional integration and effective migration management under the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He highlighted the importance of aligning national perspectives with continental goals, stating that the dialogue provided an essential platform for informed debate and progress toward faster ratification.

Dr. Olamuyiwa Oluwafemi Solomon, speaking on behalf of the African Union, underscored the role of the AU Free Movement Protocol in facilitating trade across Africa. He noted that initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) help remove barriers to goods, services, and people, which are vital for business and investment.

Economic Opportunities and Strategic Importance

David Robert, Head of Project at the Digital Transformation Centre, GIZ Ghana, spoke on behalf of the German Development Cooperation. He emphasized the strategic economic benefits of free movement, highlighting it as more than just a humanitarian issue. “Free movement is a business case for Africa and partner regions like Europe, including Germany and Ghana,” he said.

Mr. Eric Peasah, representing the CSOs Coalition on Migration, pointed to Africa’s long history of mobility and trade. He contrasted this with the current restrictive visa regimes and fragmented migration policies that hinder integration and development. His remarks called attention to the need for a more cohesive approach to migration management.

Lessons from Rwanda

The dialogue also explored lessons learned from Rwanda’s experience. By removing visa restrictions, Rwanda saw significant economic growth, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Revenues in these areas doubled between 2020 and 2024, demonstrating the tangible benefits of open borders.

Commitments and Next Steps

At the conclusion of the event, a communiqué was adopted, outlining commitments from members of the national coordination mechanism—including ministries, departments, agencies, and civil society organizations—to intensify efforts toward Ghana’s ratification of the AU FMP Protocol.

The communiqué recognized the critical role of parliament in championing the AU FMP and called for enhanced advocacy, policy coherence, and stakeholder engagement. A key objective is to achieve ratification by December 2027, reflecting a strong national commitment to regional integration and economic development.

This dialogue marks an important milestone in Ghana’s journey toward embracing the principles of free movement and fostering deeper regional cooperation. It sets the stage for continued collaboration among all stakeholders to realize the full potential of the AU FMP Protocol.