Tanzania and Kenya Rank Low in African Passport Mobility, Henley Index Reveals
Tanzania and Kenya continue to occupy the lower tiers of Africa’s most powerful passports, according to the latest Henley Passport Power Index for 2025. The comprehensive report highlights significant challenges in global economic mobility for East African nations.
Tanzania secured the 11th position among African countries, narrowly outperforming Kenya at 12th place. The index measures visa-free access to global gross domestic product (GDP), revealing critical insights into international travel and economic opportunities.
With an economic mobility score of 5.39 percent, Tanzania marginally edges out Kenya’s 5.05 percent. The region’s passport performance remains constrained, with Mozambique and Rwanda completing the East African lineup at 4.86 and 4.49 percent respectively.
In stark contrast, African island nations like Mauritius and Seychelles lead continental rankings. These small states have achieved remarkable visa-free access to 55.53 and 55.25 percent of global GDP through strategic diplomatic partnerships.
South Africa emerges as the mainland African leader, providing citizens visa-free access to 15.49 percent of global economic territories. North African countries Tunisia and Morocco also demonstrate stronger international mobility.
Experts emphasize that passport power extends beyond travel convenience, representing critical economic and professional opportunities. The limited mobility of East African passports continues to pose significant barriers to regional economic integration and global participation.
The index underscores the urgent need for African nations to develop more comprehensive international travel agreements and diplomatic strategies. As the continent advances towards broader economic collaboration, passport mobility remains a crucial factor in achieving global economic engagement.
