AU Expresses Concern Over Trump's New Travel Ban Targeting African Countries

by: Ahmed Mohamed | 05 June 2025 19:33

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AU Expresses Concern Over Trump's New Travel Ban Targeting African Countries

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (Kaab TV) – The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact of a newly announced travel ban by U.S. President Donald Trump, which targets 19 countries — including several in Afric

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The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact of a newly announced travel ban by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which targets 19 countries — including several in Africa.

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (Kaab TV) – The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact of a newly announced travel ban by U.S. President Donald Trump, which targets 19 countries — including several in Africa.

In a statement issued today, the African Union Commission said it has "taken note” of the latest proclamation by the U.S. government that reinstates and expands travel restrictions on nationals from multiple countries, including Somalia, Libya, Eritrea, Sudan, and others on the continent.

Trump’s new ban, announced on Wednesday, revives a signature policy from his first term and takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on Monday.

It places a full travel ban on citizens from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

An additional seven countries — Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela — will face enhanced screening and visa restrictions.

Trump defended the policy by citing "deficient vetting systems,” high visa overstay rates, and limited cooperation from some governments on deportation matters.

While acknowledging "the sovereign right of all nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens,” the AU Commission called on the United States to exercise such rights "in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa.”

The AU warned that the travel restrictions could undermine people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and broader diplomatic relations that have been "carefully nurtured over decades.”

"The African Union and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation,” the Commission stated. "We respectfully call upon the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned.”

The Commission also urged transparent communication and collaboration to address any underlying issues that may have informed the U.S. decision.

Finally, the AU reaffirmed its readiness to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States.