Kenya has postponed the implementation of a presidential decision that would allow visa-free entry for foreigners, reports revealed on Tuesday.
The current visa application procedure will remain in place, requiring visitors to apply for visas through Kenyan embassies, since an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is currently being developed and implemented, the media reported.
"All travelers coming to Kenya from countries that require visas shall continue applying for visas in the usual manner until the government communicates the change program to the ETA system," the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority reportedly said.
In November, the Kenya Tourism Board announced its goal of attracting around 5.5 million international tourists over the next five years. This initiative is part of Kenya's five-year strategic plan, which aims to increase the tourism industry's annual contribution to the country's economy to $6.3 billion.
African countries are abolishing visas not only for non-African countries, but also for tourists from their own continent. As of January 1, citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo no longer need a visa to visit the countries of the East African Community, of which it is a member.
In November, the President of Rwanda Paul Kagame announced visa-free travel for Africans to promote the free movement of people and trade.