A section of security and governance experts has expressed their concerns about the recent lifting of Visa requirement for anyone who wants to come to Kenya.
President William Ruto recently announced that from January 1, 2024, anyone coming into the country will not be required to be in possession of a Kenyan Visa.
But speaking to the press, Philemon Samoei, a security and disaster management expert said Ruto’s declaration during the 60th Jamhuri day celebrations could expose Kenyans to many security challenges.
“President Ruto’s declaration is likely to open up a window for smuggling of illegal goods and services, money laundering and tax evasion,” Samoei said.
The former military officer further said the arrangement should be given adequate time before it is implemented.
Terrorism threat
He argues that terrorists, who have money to traverse across the world and engage in terrorism might take advantage of the new system in Kenya.
“Looking at it from the security layer which will have been extremely compromised, this free Visa entry arrangement will expose us to terrorism and organized crimes which Visa was managing or had cured to a greater extent,” he stated.
On his part, Jeremiah Njuguna a political analyst and governance expert said that lifting of the visa requirement will affect Kenya’s labour market.
“We shall see entry of illegal immigrants who will flood our labour markets and our business environment. This may result in Xenophic attacks like what we saw in South Africa where locals feel foreigners have come to take their opportunities,” Njuguna said.
He appealed to the government of Kenya to do proper checks and balance before implementing the arrangement that has worked well in the European Union, Seychelles and some other African counties.
How will Visa free policy will help Kenya?
Commenting on President Ruto’s ambitious plan, Sitatunga ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Simon Murei however said it has potential of boosting intercontinental trade.
“While we admit that this arrangement has some demerits, it has numerous merits. It is going to attract investors and tourists who will bring foreign exchange and in turn boost our economy,” Murei stated.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Nelson Kereti, a political analyst who said, investors will set up industries and create employment to unemployed youths.
“Lifting of the visa will position Kenya as an investment hub in our region and this will address unemployment amongst the people of Kenya,” Kereti said.
But security experts insist that proper profiling should be done to avert possible security breaches in the arrangement.
