AU Commission asks US to reconsider travel ban on African countries

US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. [AFP]

The African Union Commission has raised concerns over the latest United States travel ban imposed on African countries and other continents.

This is after President Donald Trump signed a new travel ban that came into effect on Monday, targeting 12 countries, including the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Somalia, and Sudan, among others.

In a statement, the commission pleaded with the US to reconsider its decision, noting the consequences on the affected citizens.

“The African Union Commission respectfully appeals to the United States to exercise this right in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa,” stated the commission.

Though the commission recognises sovereign rights of the US to protect its citizens, it has noted that it can negatively impact people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations.

AUC has pleaded with the US to seek alternative mechanisms to solve the underlying issues.

“African Union Commission respectfully calls upon the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned,” it added.

“Commission appeals for transparent communication, and where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have informed this decision.”

The commission has expressed willingness to support efforts aimed at promoting understanding, resolving issues and strengthening cooperation between Africa and the United States.

President Trump said he decided to sign new travel bans after a makeshift flamethrower attack on a Jewish protest in Colorado that US authorities blamed on a man reported to be in the country illegally.

"The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted. We don't want them," Trump said in a video message from the Oval Office posted on the social media platform X.

Other countries affected by the movement ban include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, and Yemen.

Trump also imposed a partial ban on travellers from seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

However, temporary work visas from the mentioned countries will be allowed.

Additionally, the ban will not apply to athletes competing in the 2026 World Cup, which the US is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico, as well as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Additional reporting by AFP