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African Union Plans for Common Passport and Free Trade, Raising Hopes for a Unified Africa

Is the world witnessing the makings of the United States of Africa? The African Union has taken a step toward integration of the continent. At its summit taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, in July, the AU is launching a single, common electronic passport throughout the continent.

The 54-member body wants to allow free movement across national borders in Africa, creating “seamless borders” similar to the European Union Schengen free movement deal, as The Independent reported. The AU plans to have visa-free travel for Africans visiting African countries by 2020, and will enact a free-trade agreement by next year.

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