This archive report was first published on 12 July 2021.
As of July 12, 2021, Kenyan passport holders face significant travel restrictions, with 54 countries now off-limits, according to the Henley Passport Index.
The index, which tracks global travel freedom, notes that the number of countries Kenyans can visit without a visa has dropped from 79 in December to 59, with the latest report citing quarter two data.
Some of the countries that have banned Kenyan passport holders from traveling include Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Cambodia, the UK, Canada, Portugal, Denmark, Bulgaria, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Chile, Czech Republic, Cyprus, and Cameroon.
These restrictions are largely due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the movement restrictions implemented by governments worldwide.
According to the Henley & Partners report, 'Borders remain firmly closed in several countries, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, while many others continue to ban travelers from high-risk regions.'
Notably, despite the restrictions on Kenyan passport holders, the Kenyan government has not reciprocated with any bans on the 54 countries that have restricted travel for Kenyans.
However, upon arrival in Kenya, citizens from certain countries, including Ireland, Kuwait, Pakistan, Brunei, and Thailand, are required to isolate themselves.
The Kenyan passport has also lost strength in Africa, dropping from the ninth position to 11th, where it ties with Tanzania and Ghana, according to the Passport Index.
