Kenyan tourist arrivals in South Africa hit record 58,376 after visa-free entry deal

Kenyan tourism to South Africa has risen by 18.7 per cent following the introduction of a 90-day visa-free entry policy, with arrivals reaching a record 58,376 visitors in 2025—the highest number ever recorded in a single year.

The figures were revealed during bilateral talks in Pretoria between President William Ruto and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during Ruto’s state visit, where the two leaders reviewed progress in strengthening cooperation in tourism, trade, and broader economic relations.

“Just today, during our bilateral discussions, the Ministry of Tourism of South Africa informed us that the number of Kenyans visiting South Africa has increased by 18.7 per cent since the introduction of the 90-day visa-free entry policy,” President William Ruto said.

He noted that 2025 had registered the highest number of Kenyan visitors to South Africa.

“In 2025 alone, 58,376 Kenyans visited South Africa—the highest number ever recorded in a single year,” he said.

Ruto said the increase highlights the benefits of easing travel restrictions between countries.

“This stands as compelling evidence that when managed effectively, the movement of people across borders can create shared prosperity, strengthen ties between nations, and deliver tangible benefits for all,” he said.

The two leaders also discussed wider areas of cooperation, including peace and security, reaffirming that stability remains essential for development. They pledged to continue working together through the African Union, the United Nations, and other multilateral organisations.

Beyond tourism, the meeting focused on strengthening economic and diplomatic relations, including trade facilitation and cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

President Ruto said Kenya and South Africa are positioning themselves as leading African voices on global affairs.

“As two of Africa’s most influential voices, South Africa and Kenya are determined that our continent should shape global outcomes and not merely respond to them,” he said.