By: Kemo Kanyi
The African Union Commission appeals to the United States to approach its travel ban decision on African countries with empirical evidence, fairness, and in a manner that protects US-Africa relationships.
In a statement released on Thursday, the African Union Commission said it has taken note of the recent proclamation by the Government of the United States imposing new travel restrictions affecting nationals from several countries, including some on the African continent.
The US has announced a travel ban on seven African countries. These nations are Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, the Republic of Congo, and Sudan. Nationals from seven African countries are barred from entering the United States, under a policy based on the proportion of ‘visa overstays’. According to Amnesty International, Trump’s travel ban will harm people seeking safety, spread hate, and discrimination.
The African Union Commission acknowledges the rights of nations in them thrive to secure their citizens, but raises concern over the manner of the US travel ban. “While recognising the sovereign right of all nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens, the African Union Commission respectfully appeals to the United States to exercise this right in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa,” AU Commission points out in a statement.
The Commission added that it remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades. It also states that Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation.
The AU respectfully calls for transparent communication, with the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned.
