African Union expresses concern over expanded US travel ban affecting several African countries, urges dialogue and cooperation.

The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern regarding the potential negative consequences stemming from the newly announced travel ban imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which targets 19 countries, including several African nations. In a statement issued today, the African Union Commission said it has "taken note" of the latest proclamation by the U.S. government, which reinstates and expands travel restrictions affecting nationals from multiple countries, such as Somalia, Libya, Eritrea, Sudan, and others across the African continent.

The travel ban, announced on Wednesday, revives a signature policy from President Trump’s first term and is set to take 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. In addition to these, seven other countries—Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—will face enhanced screening measures and more stringent visa restrictions.

President Trump defended the policy by citing concerns about “deficient vetting systems,” high visa overstay rates, and limited cooperation from some governments on deportation matters. While acknowledging that all nations have the sovereign right to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens, the African Union Commission urged 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 these travel restrictions could significantly undermine people-to-people ties, educational exchanges, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over many decades. The Commission emphasized that the African Union and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation. Therefore, it respectfully called upon the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries affected by the ban.

Furthermore, the African Union Commission urged transparent communication and collaboration between all involved parties to address any underlying issues that may have informed the U.S. decision to impose these travel restrictions. Lastly, the AU reaffirmed its readiness to support efforts aimed at promoting understanding, resolving concerns, and strengthening the cooperation that exists between Africa and the United States.