Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and Ethiopia have landed on a US travel ban watchlist, facing potential restrictions if they fail to meet new security standards. The move is part of President Donald Trump’s renewed push on immigration and global vetting practices.
Highlights:
- Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and Ethiopia included on Trump’s 36-nation travel ban watchlist.
- Countries have 60 days to comply with US security and identity verification requirements.
- Failure to meet expectations could result in full or partial travel bans.
- The warning revives Trump-era immigration tactics focused on national security.
- African nations urge dialogue and diplomatic resolution.
Main Story:
Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and Ethiopia are among 36 countries flagged by US President Donald Trump as security concerns in a revived travel watchlist. These nations now face the possibility of full or partial US travel restrictions if they don’t comply with new demands within 60 days.
According to Trump’s team, the countries are being monitored for gaps in security data sharing, identity management systems, and passport verification. The criteria mirror those used during Trump’s first term when several majority-Muslim countries were placed under sweeping travel bans.
The countries have been given a strict 60-day window to make progress on improving their systems or risk being barred from sending travelers to the United States, either entirely or in limited categories, such as government officials or certain visa classes.
African leaders have begun voicing concern over the renewed targeting of the continent. Many argue that broad travel bans hurt ordinary citizens, damage economic ties, and do little to address the root of security concerns. The African Union is expected to respond formally if sanctions proceed.
The announcement signals Trump’s continued influence over conservative immigration discourse as he ramps up campaigning ahead of the 2024 US presidential election cycle. His original travel ban, often criticized as discriminatory, was one of the most controversial policies of his administration.
- As the 60-day deadline looms, these African nations must now choose between urgent reform and facing travel sanctions—under the shadow of a policy many thought had been left behind.
