Togo: African Union Migration Advisory Council Lomé Talks Shape New Mandate

• Lomé is hosting consultations until September 30, 2026, to establish the African Union Migration Advisory Council (MAC) and define its mandate.
• About 100 delegates, government officials, and experts are participating, focusing on migration governance and integrated border management systems.
• The MAC is expected to produce data, share experiences, and make recommendations on migration policies across the continent.
• Togo recently removed advance visa requirements for African nationals with valid passports, allowing stays of up to 30 days while maintaining controls.
• These discussions align with the 20-year anniversary of the African Union Migration Policy Framework and the strategic goals of Agenda 2063.

For legal professionals advising clients on matters of cross-border movement, immigration, or regional trade, closely monitoring the emerging recommendations and policies from the African Union's Migration Advisory Council will be essential.

The city of Lomé is currently hosting significant discussions focused on enhancing the free movement of people across the African continent and establishing a new institutional body, the African Union Migration Advisory Council (MAC). These crucial African Union Migration Advisory Council Lomé talks are scheduled to continue until Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Approximately one hundred delegates, including government officials and various experts drawn from nations across Africa, are actively participating. Their collective objective is to meticulously define the specific mandate and operational priorities for this forthcoming advisory body.

The proposed AU Migration Advisory Council mandate is envisioned to be multifaceted, primarily involving the generation of pertinent data, the facilitation of experience sharing among member states, and the formulation of actionable recommendations concerning migration policies. Current discussions are deeply exploring critical aspects such as migration and border governance, examining diverse national experiences with mobility, and assessing integrated border management systems. These consultations hold particular significance as they coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the foundational African Union Migration Policy Framework, underscoring a long-term commitment to regional integration.

Furthermore, the ongoing deliberations are carefully aligned with the overarching objectives outlined in Agenda 2063, the continent's strategic blueprint for socio-economic transformation. The establishment of such a council is seen as a vital step towards realizing the aspirations for a more integrated and prosperous Africa, where the movement of people contributes positively to development.

In a move that highlights practical steps towards greater regional integration, Togo has recently implemented measures designed to simplify travel for African nationals. Effective May 18, 2026, the nation officially abolished the requirement for citizens of other African countries, provided they hold valid passports, to obtain a visa in advance of their arrival. This progressive policy allows for stays of up to 30 days, while still ensuring that standard immigration procedures and necessary controls remain firmly in place. This initiative directly supports the broader African Union free movement policy goals.

Sabelo Mbokazi, who leads the Labour, Employment and Migration Division at the African Union Commission, confirmed that Togo intends to share its valuable experience with Togo visa-free African nationals during these consultations. He emphasized that this practical example could serve as an instructive model for other countries across the continent that are also seeking to further facilitate mobility. Minister of Territorial Administration, Local Governance and Customary Affairs Hodabalo Awaté also underscored the significant economic dimension inherent in enhanced mobility across borders.

The outcomes of the African Union Migration Advisory Council Lomé talks are poised to significantly influence the future trajectory of migration governance and policy across Africa. By consolidating data, sharing best practices, and issuing informed recommendations, the nascent council is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping how member states approach cross-border movement. This initiative is a crucial component of the continent's long-term vision for seamless integration and economic growth, as articulated within the Agenda 2063 migration framework.

For legal professionals advising clients on matters of cross-border movement, immigration, or regional trade, closely monitoring the emerging recommendations and policies from the African Union's Migration Advisory Council will be essential. These developments could directly inform and reshape future national immigration laws and compliance requirements across the continent, necessitating proactive legal counsel and strategic adjustments for businesses and individuals operating within Africa.

Lawyers advising clients on cross-border movement, immigration, or regional trade should monitor the emerging recommendations and policies from the African Union's Migration Advisory Council, as these could shape future national immigration laws and compliance requirements across the continent.

Source: Original reporting from regional sources