Top 10 African countries with the weakest passports in 2026

Across Africa, the gap in global mobility remains wide. A small number of countries enjoy relatively strong passports that allow easier access to major destinations around the world. But many African nations still rank among the weakest globally, limiting the freedom of movement of their citizens.

The latest rankings from the Henley & Partners Passport Index show that conflict, political instability, weak diplomatic ties, and security concerns continue to shape the strength of African passports. Citizens from countries facing prolonged unrest or international isolation often struggle with strict visa requirements and lengthy travel procedures.

Here are Africa’s 10 weakest passports in 2026.

Read also: Why Nigeria posted Africa’s biggest passport power decline in 20 years

1. Somalia

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access: 33 countries

Somalia holds the weakest passport in Africa. Decades of conflict, insecurity, and political instability have severely limited the country’s diplomatic reach and international mobility. Somali passport holders often face strict visa requirements and extensive screening processes before travelling abroad.

2. Libya and Eritrea
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 39 countries

Libya and Eritrea share the second spot on the list. Libya’s ranking continues to be affected by years of political turmoil and security concerns following prolonged internal conflict. Eritrea, meanwhile, remains one of the world’s most isolated states, with limited diplomatic engagement and tight government controls affecting international travel opportunities for its citizens.

Read also Top 5 most powerful passports in 2026

3. Sudan
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 41 countries

Sudan ranks third among Africa’s weakest passports. Although the country has sought to rebuild international ties in recent years, ongoing conflict and political uncertainty continue to undermine travel access for Sudanese citizens.

4. South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 43 countries

South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo share fourth place. Both countries continue to grapple with instability, armed conflict, and governance challenges that have weakened diplomatic relationships and restricted international mobility.

5. Nigeria and Ethiopia
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 44 countries

Despite being two of Africa’s largest economies and influential regional powers, Nigeria and Ethiopia still have relatively weak passports. Security concerns, migration pressures, and strict visa policies from wealthier nations continue to limit travel options for their citizens.

6. Djibouti
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 47 countries

Djibouti’s passport offers moderate mobility compared with several other African states. The country benefits from its strategic location in the Horn of Africa and its international partnerships, although global access remains limited overall.

Read also: Nigeria passport rises in ranking but loses visa-free access

7. Republic of the Congo, Cameroon and Angola
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 48 countries

These three countries are tied in seventh place. Regional agreements within Africa have improved movement across neighbouring states, but travel to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia remains heavily restricted.

8. Liberia and Burundi
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 50 countries

Liberia and Burundi both rank among the continent’s weakest passports. Limited diplomatic influence, governance issues, and economic challenges continue to affect the global mobility of their citizens.

9. Egypt and Central African Republic
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 51 countries

Egypt remains one of Africa’s most important political and economic powers, but its passport still faces restrictions in several major destinations, including parts of Europe and North America. The Central African Republic continues to struggle with instability that affects its international standing.

10. Chad
Visa free or visa on arrival access: 52 countries

Chad completes the list of Africa’s weakest passports. Ongoing security concerns in the Sahel region, combined with limited diplomatic reach, have contributed to the country’s low ranking on the Henley Passport Index.