Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stated that the country will start issuing chip-embedded passports on Monday, April 28, 2025, as part of its attempts to modernize and safeguard its travel documentation system.
A microprocessor chip in the enhanced passport, also known as an e-passport, safely retains the holder’s photo and biometric information.
To prevent tampering and identity theft, it also has sophisticated security mechanisms, such as hidden and visible anti-fraud components.
During a press event in Accra, the minister clarified that the new passport format is intended to promote overall openness, decrease the role of middlemen in the application process, and greatly improve document security.
“This is a major step forward in improving the integrity of our passport system.”
“The chip-embedded passports will help us meet international standards while also protecting the identities of Ghanaian citizens,” Hon. Ablakwa stated.
“These reforms are not only about innovation but about accessibility, efficiency, and fairness for all Ghanaians,” the minister added.
The program is a component of the ministry’s larger passport reform agenda, which it is implementing all year long.
The implementation of 24-hour passport application centers, home delivery services through courier, real-time computerized passport application tracking, and a 30% application fee decrease are further developments.
He said that Ghana is now one of the nations implementing e-passport technology to improve travel security and expedite border control processes with the introduction of the chip-embedded passport.
Source: newsthemegh.com