Uganda's Passport Ranks Below Regional Peers in 2026 Henley Index

Uganda’s passport has maintained its standing in the latest Henley Passport Index, securing the 72nd global rank. Holders of the Ugandan passport can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival in 65 destinations worldwide. However, this places Uganda behind its East African neighbors in terms of travel freedom.

Kenya boasts the strongest passport in the region, ranking 68th globally with access to 70 destinations, an improvement from its 2025 standing. Rwanda and Tanzania are tied for 69th place, each offering access to 68 destinations. Rwanda has shown significant progress, climbing from 76th place last year.

Tanzania, while retaining its 69th global ranking, saw a decrease in accessible destinations, falling from 73 to 68. Uganda has been at the 72nd position for two consecutive years, a notable recovery from its low of 81st in 2021.

Other East African nations also saw shifts. Burundi improved to 88th globally, despite a slight reduction in visa-free access. Similarly, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia climbed in the rankings, though their visa-free access points decreased. These fluctuations highlight how relative global movements influence individual passport rankings.

Globally, Singapore leads the pack with access to 192 destinations, followed by Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. Seychelles and Mauritius remain the strongest passports in Africa. The report, based on International Air Transport Association data, underscores a significant expansion in global mobility over the past two decades, with the average passport now granting access to 108 destinations, up from 58 in 2006.

Source: Nile Post