The International Trade Union Confederation–Africa (ITUC-Africa) has commended the Government of Chad for abolishing entry visa requirements for citizens of all African countries, describing the move as a significant step towards African unity and integration.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Comrade Joel Odigie, the regional labour organisation praised the administration of President Mahamat Idriss Déby for approving the visa-free policy, which will take effect on January 1, 2027.
Odigie described the decision as “bold and progressive”, saying it reflects the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for a peaceful, prosperous and integrated continent.
“This bold and progressive decision represents an important step towards an Africa in which Africans can move more freely, build relationships, exchange knowledge and contribute to the continent’s development.
“It gives practical expression to the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated Africa,” he said.
According to him, Chad’s decision will also strengthen the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that meaningful economic integration cannot be achieved while the movement of people remains restricted.
“Goods and services do not move by themselves; they are carried, produced, traded and delivered by workers, entrepreneurs and communities.
“Removing visa barriers will support intra-African trade, tourism, investment, skills exchange and employment creation,” he added.
ITUC-Africa, however, stressed that increased freedom of movement must be matched with stronger protections for workers.
The organisation said Africans crossing borders in search of employment and economic opportunities should enjoy decent working conditions, equal treatment, freedom of association, access to social protection, and protection against discrimination, exploitation, forced labour and abusive recruitment practices.
It urged the Chadian Government to complement the visa-free initiative with clear administrative procedures, effective border management and mechanisms to safeguard the rights and dignity of migrant workers.
The labour body also called for the active involvement of trade unions and other social partners in developing and monitoring the policy.
Furthermore, ITUC-Africa urged other African governments to emulate Chad by accelerating the implementation of the African Union Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment.
Odigie maintained that a truly integrated African market must be centred on its people and should promote decent work, social justice and shared prosperity.
“By opening its doors to Africans, Chad has demonstrated that African integration must move beyond declarations and become a lived reality for the continent’s citizens.
“ITUC-Africa salutes the Government and people of Chad for taking this courageous step towards an Africa without unnecessary barriers,” he said.
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