The African Union Commission has raised issues following the decision by the United States to issue a travel ban to 12 countries.

Afghanistan, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen are the 12 countries whose nationals have been banned from travelling to the US following a recent order by President Donald Trump.

“The African Union Commission has taken note of the recent proclamation by the Government of the United States imposing new travel restrictions affecting nationals from several countries, including some on the African continent.

“While recognizing the sovereign right of all nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their 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,” a press statement by AUC read on Thursday, June 6, 2025.

Negative impact

AUC said such a ban has a potential negative impact on wide-ranging sectors of the affected countries.

“The commission remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades. Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation.

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

“The Commission stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States,” it concluded.

Apart from the travel ban, there will be heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.