10 least powerful African passports in 2025

African passports continue to rank among the least powerful globally in 2025, limiting travel opportunities for millions of citizens.

The rankings are determined by the number of destinations passport holders can access without a visa or with visa-on-arrival, and many African nations remain at the lower end of the scale.

The limited mobility reflects broader socio-economic and political challenges faced by these nations. For citizens, restricted travel options have significant implications for business, education, and tourism opportunities. Higher visa fees and prolonged application processes further exacerbate the difficulties for African travellers.

Read also: Top 10 Most Powerful African Passports in 2024

Experts suggest that improving passport rankings requires stronger governance, enhanced diplomatic relations, and sustained economic growth. These measures could reduce travel barriers and make international mobility more accessible to Africans.

According to the 2025 Henley and Partners Index, here are the 10 least powerful African passports in 2025

1. Somalia – 35 Destinations

Somalia’s passport ranks the lowest in Africa, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 35 destinations worldwide. Political instability and security concerns contribute to the country’s weak passport ranking, which limits international mobility for its citizens.

2. Libya – 40 Destinations

Libya is the second-lowest ranked African passport, granting access to 40 destinations. Years of conflict and internal challenges have affected Libya’s international relations, making its passport less advantageous for travel.

Read also: 10 most powerful passports in Africa

3. Eritrea – 42 Destinations

The Eritrean passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 42 destinations. The country’s restrictive policies on emigration and diplomatic isolation have played a role in its ranking.

4. Sudan – 43 Destinations

Sudan’s passport allows entry to 43 destinations. Recent political transitions and ongoing instability have affected its ranking, with limited opportunities for visa-free travel for its citizens.

5. South Sudan – 44 Destinations

South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, has a passport that allows access to 44 destinations. Challenges with infrastructure and international relations since its independence in 2011 have hindered improvements in mobility.

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6. Nigeria – 46 Destinations

The Nigerian passport provides access to 46 destinations. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigerians face significant travel restrictions. Concerns about immigration and overstays have contributed to stricter visa policies from other nations.

7. Ethiopia – 46 Destinations

Ethiopia shares the same ranking as Nigeria, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 46 destinations. Although the country has strong cultural and historical significance, limited diplomatic reach impacts the mobility of its citizens.

8. Democratic Republic of Congo – 46 Destinations

The passport of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers access to 46 destinations. Decades of instability and governance challenges have contributed to its lower ranking.

9. Djibouti – 49 Destinations

Djibouti’s passport allows entry to 49 destinations. While its strategic location in the Horn of Africa has bolstered regional cooperation, broader international travel freedom remains restricted.

10. Republic of Congo – 50 Destinations

The Republic of Congo’s passport grants access to 50 destinations. Although slightly higher than other countries on this list, Congolese citizens still face significant travel limitations compared to many other African nations.