Mozambique and Uganda are discussing expanding visa exemptions as part of a broader effort to enhance regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to Colonel Geoffrey Kambere, Uganda’s Immigration Control Commissioner, governments aim to facilitate more accessible travel for their citizens. In this regard, Mozambique proposes that Ugandans be allowed to visit without a visa, VisaGuide.World reports.
Mozambique Could Soon Join Uganda’s Visa-Exempt Nations List
He also revealed that if approved, Mozambique would join the list of countries exempt from visa requirements for travel to Uganda. Current visa-exempt countries include Botswana, Ireland, South Sudan, Malaysia, Angola, Kenya, Malawi, and Comoros, where their citizens are not required to pay a fee of $50.
Our colleagues from Mozambique currently pay $50 for a visa to come here, and they have expressed that, as fellow Africans, these payments should be removed.
During a joint permanent commission meeting in Kampala on Monday, Ambassador Richard Kabonero, head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regional economic cooperation, revealed that discussions are centred on establishing bilateral agreements in political, security, and economic sectors.
Although the current number of Mozambicans traveling to Uganda is relatively low, the proposed visa exemption represents a significant opportunity to enhance bilateral relations and increase trade.
Mozambican authorities view this exemption as part of a broader initiative to boost regional integration across Africa, in alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to facilitate easier cross-border movement.
Mozambique Exports $8.75 Million to Uganda
Historically, Mozambique and Uganda have maintained a robust trade relationship. In 2017, Mozambique had a notable net trade surplus with Uganda. Key exports from Mozambique to Uganda included buses, cars, and iron fasteners, amounting to $8.75 million in 2022. Uganda, in turn, exports various products to Mozambique.
Through our enhanced bilateral ties, both countries will achieve significant economic and social progress.
The countries share a deep historical connection rooted in their collaborative struggles against colonial rule. Recently, this bond has been reinforced through high-level presidential visits and the creation of the Uganda-Mozambique Joint Permanent Commission (JPC).
Moreover, specific trade data reveals Uganda imported $60 worth of tools from Mozambique in 2011 and $1.740 worth of vessels in 2016.