The Western visa system has become a significant source of frustration and despair for many Africans. Individuals invest their life savings or borrow money to apply for visas, only to be denied and left with nothing. Their visa policies are a form of economic exploitation, draining Africa’s resources and limiting opportunities.
Billions of Dollars are lost annually to non-refundable visa fees, a significant portion of which could be invested in education, healthcare and economic developments. For fairness sake, how can someone pay for what he is not given? The Western world’s visa policies are discriminatory and exploitative, particularly towards Africans.
Africans pay significant amounts for visa applications and other requirements, often non-refundable, even if their application is denied. This practice drains Africa’s foreign exchange reserves, exploits would-be travelers and immigrants while it perpetuates inequality and oppression.
The Western visa scam affects individuals seeking education, work, family reunification, businesses, tourism and Africa’s global competitiveness.
The loss is not just financial; it also causes emotional distress, psychological trauma, physical health problems and so on. Many Africans have lost their savings, lost their marriages, accumulated debt, suffered mental health issues and even deaths in some cases as a result of denied visas.
The Western visa scam is a modern-day form of exploitation. Africans and their governments must demand refundable visa fees, negotiate reciprocal visa policies and strengthen regional cooperation.
By challenging unfair visa policies, Africans can protect their economic interests, promote global mobility and assert their rights, for no Western nation will allow African nations to carry out such exploitative visa scam on their soil.
Please note this: There is no other way about it. What is good for the goose is good for the gander.
– Ambassador Ezewele Cyril Abionanojie is the author of the book ‘The Enemy Called Corruption’ an award winner of Best Columnist of the year 2020, Giant in Security Support, Statesmanship Integrity & Productivity Award Among others. He is the President of Peace Ambassadors Global.