By Hannah Dadzie
Ghana has officially launched Chip-Embedded Passport as part of its commitment to improving service delivery and meeting international travel standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
The new passport system positions Ghana among the leading nations embracing cutting-edge biometric technology to enhance security and global integration.
Speaking at the launch, President Akufo-Addo, highlighted the project’s importance in ensuring that Ghanaian travelers enjoy seamless access to global destinations while reducing the risks associated with passport fraud. The President said the e-passport is part of broader reforms to Ghana’s passport administration system.
The new passport, developed in collaboration with Biometric Travel Solutions Limited, features cutting-edge security enhancements. A micro-processor embedded in the passport stores the holder’s biometric and photo data, alongside advanced anti-fraud measures. The launch marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to enhance the security and efficiency of its passport issuance process.
It also underscores Ghana’s dedication to leveraging technology to improve public services while adhering to international protocols. The new passport’s design incorporates cultural elements such as Adinkra symbols, including Fawohodie (freedom and independence) and Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu (democracy and cooperation). These symbols reflect Ghanaian values of resilience, unity, and freedom. President Akufo-Addo said the new passport signifies a new chapter in Ghana’s journey towards modernization.
“The e-Passport is not just a travel document; it is a symbol of our progress, resilience, and readiness to embrace the future with confidence.” President Akufo-Addo stated
The launch of the chip-embedded passport signifies a new chapter in Ghana’s journey toward modernization and global respect. “Together, we are building a Ghana that is secure, innovative, and ready to take its rightful place on the global stage,” President Akufo-Addo concluded.
President Akufo-Addo praised the collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, led by Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.
“This achievement underscores the strategic importance of public-private partnerships in driving national development,” The President said
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey the Minister emphasized the symbolic and practical importance of the new passport. She noted that initiative aligns with the government’s broader digitization agenda, led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to modernize key national systems and processes.
“This transition from the biometric passport to the state-of-the-art chip-embedded passport represents our dedication to efficiency, security, and adherence to international standards.” Madam Ayorkor Botchwey indicated
The Minister assured citizens that the Ministry remains committed to providing a passport system that is efficient, transparent, and reflective of the nation’s aspirations.
“This is the dawn of a new day for passport acquisition in Ghana,” she declared. “Our efforts reflect a vision of a safer, more connected world for our citizens.These reforms aim to eliminate inefficiencies, curb exploitation, and render the activities of ‘goro boys’ a thing of the past” She assured
Chief Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ramses J. Cleland said over the past eight years, the Ministry together with the Ministry of the Interior, the Ghana Immigration Service and private partners, have worked tirelessly to deliver on their mandate in the area of passport administration.
“We are, therefore, delighted to be able to showcase the product of our collaborative efforts and the birthing of a new and advanced travel document, the chip-embedded Ghana Passport for the benefit Ghanaian citizens,” Ambassador Cleland said
The event brought together government officials, key stakeholders in the travel and security sectors, who lauded the ministry’s foresight in adopting cutting-edge innovations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this new passport will run along with the current biometric passports for some time before they are faced out.
