US govt considers new travel ban on 22 African countries, 21 others

The US government under President Donald Trump is considering a new travel ban targeting 22 African countries and 21 others.

However, Nigeria is not on the list.

This proposed ban is expected to be broader than the restrictions imposed during President Trump’s first term.

New York Times reported Friday that US diplomatic and security officials developed the draft list of 43 countries, some of which were included in the travel ban imposed during President Trump’s first administration. The draft suggests a “red” list of 11 countries, an “orange” list of 10 countries, and a “yellow” list of 22 countries.

Ccitizens of countries on the red list would be flatly barred from entering the United States.

Those whose countries on the orange list will face travel restrictions. Affluent business travellers from such countries might be granted entry in these cases, but individuals arriving on immigrant or tourist visas would be denied access.

Countries on the yellow list will be given a 60-day window to address concerns before a verdict is reached.

Out of the 43 countries, 22 are African nations.

The red list has three African countries – Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. The rest of the countries from other continents on the red list are Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen.