Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an urgent travel advisory informing Ghanaians and prospective travellers to Kenya of a new mandatory inbound health insurance policy introduced by the Kenyan authorities.
The policy, which took effect on 5th October 2026, applies to all non-Kenyan citizens entering the East African country for stays under 12 months.
In a official statement released on 5th November 2026, the Ministry revealed that the directive was communicated through Ghana’s High Commission in Nairobi following updates to Kenya’s entry regulations.
According to the Ministry, the mandate covers all non-Kenyan travellers, including minors, who are each required to hold individual health insurance coverage. Nationals from African countries outside the East African Community who enjoy exemptions from Electronic Travel Authorisation requirements must also comply unless they fall under specific exempt groups.
“The requirement applies to all non-Kenyan travellers, including minors, with each traveller required to obtain individual travel health insurance coverage,” the Ministry stated.
Exemptions have been granted to Kenyan citizens, valid residence permit holders, citizens of East African Community Partner States, asylum seekers, and holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports. Transport crew members and transit passengers who do not enter Kenya are also excluded from the requirement.
The Ministry emphasized that foreign travel insurance policies will not be accepted for compliance. Prospective visitors must purchase coverage exclusively through the official Kenyan portals, www.etakenya.go.ke or www.insurance.ecitizen.go.ke.
“In view of the foregoing, the Ministry strongly advises Ghanaians intending to travel to Kenya to familiarise themselves with the new entry requirement and make the necessary arrangements to obtain the mandatory health insurance coverage through the designated Kenyan online portals before travelling,” the statement urged.
Travel industry stakeholders and travel agencies have been advised to inform prospective travellers promptly to prevent disruptions, delays, or entry refusals at Kenyan ports of entry. Reaffirming its commitment to Ghanaian citizens, the Ministry reiterated its dedication to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Ghanaians travelling abroad.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
