Kenya, May 13 -- The United Kingdom has suddenly ended its visa agreement with Kenya, starting right away. This decision stops visa-free travel and other programs that allowed easy movement between the two countries.
Many people are worried about how this will affect the relationship between the UK and Kenya, as well as the economy.
The UK government, known as the Home Office, said the decision was due to "security and immigration concerns," but they did not provide more information about what these concerns are.
This agreement had been in place for a long time, making it easier for people to travel and for businesses to trade between the two nations.
Kenyan officials were surprised by this decision. Musalia Mudavadi, the Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, is asking for urgent discussions to address the UK's worries. He said, "This one-sided action hurts our partnership."
This change will impact many Kenyan travelers and businesses, causing delays and issues at UK entry points.
UK citizens who are in Kenya might also face similar consequences, according to local authorities.
The UK Home Office has told affected travelers to check the new visa rules before planning their trips to the UK. More information is expected as both countries deal with the effects of this decision.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.