Holding a powerful passport isn’t just about bragging rights. It’s about expanding possibilities. It removes the friction of lengthy visa applications, opens doors to international education and business ventures, and fosters cultural exchange.
Seychelles is leading the way with its passport now granting access to an impressive 156 countries, 3 more than before. Botswana, not to be outdone, witnessed a noteworthy increase to 91 visa-free destinations, while Tanzania’s passport holders can now explore 73 countries, showcasing the continent’s growing commitment to global mobility.
According to the official data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the 2024 Henley Passport Index.
Here are the ten most powerful African country passports in Q1 of 2024
Seychelles – Global Rank: 26th
At the forefront of African passport power, Seychelles secures the top spot with an Economic Mobility Score of 55.89%, affording its citizens visa-free access to 156 destinations globally.
Mauritius – Global Rank: 30th
Following closely, Mauritius claims the second position with an impressive Economic Mobility Score of 57.68%. Mauritian passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 150 destinations worldwide.
South Africa – Global Rank: 53rd
South Africa secures the third spot, showcasing its economic strength and global influence. With an Economic Mobility Score of 16.37%, South African passport holders enjoy access to 108 destinations.
Botswana – Global Rank: 59th
Botswana emerges as a passport powerhouse with a robust Economic Mobility Score of 14.77%. The nation’s citizens benefit from visa-free access to 91 destinations, reinforcing Botswana’s standing as a key player in African mobility.
Lesotho – Global Rank: 65th
Lesotho secures the 65th global rank with an Economic Mobility Score of 12.6%. This Southern African nation offers its passport holders access to 80 destinations, contributing to Lesotho’s growing global presence.
Namibia – Global Rank: 65th
Namibia with an Economic Mobility Score of 8.33%. The nation’s passport provides visa-free access to 80 destinations, showcasing Namibia’s expanding influence on the international stage.
eSwatini – Global Rank: 66th
eSwatini with an Economic Mobility Score of 8.34%. With visa-free access to 78 destinations, the nation’s passport enhances the global reach of eSwatini’s citizens.
Kenya – Global Rank: 67th
Kenya emerges with an Economic Mobility Score of 5.48%. Kenyan passport holders enjoy access to 76 destinations, further solidifying Kenya’s position as a regional leader.
Malawi – Global Rank: 67th
With an Economic Mobility Score of 5.1%, Malawi demonstrates passport progress in Southern Africa. Malawian citizens have visa-free access to 76 destinations, contributing to the nation’s upward trajectory in global mobility.
Tanzania – Global Rank: 69th
Rounding off the top 10, Tanzania achieves a global rank of 69th with an Economic Mobility Score of 4.92%. Tanzanian passport holders benefit from visa-free access to 76 destinations, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to navigating new horizons in global engagement.
