Ghana Launches Chip-Embedded Passport

Ghana has officially launched its new chip-embedded passport, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance security, efficiency, and compliance with international travel standards. The launch was attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Minister of Foreign Affairs Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and other key stakeholders.

The new passport features a microprocessor that stores the holder’s biometric data, including fingerprints and face data, alongside their photograph.

President Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of the new passport in ensuring that Ghanaian travelers enjoy seamless access to global destinations while reducing the risks associated with passport fraud. He emphasized that the e-passport is part of broader reforms to Ghana’s passport administration system, positioning Ghana among the leading nations embracing cutting-edge biometric technology.

Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey underscored the initiative’s commitment to efficiency, security, and compliance with international standards. She noted that the demands of a fast-paced technological evolution necessitated this upgrade, ensuring Ghana remains at the forefront of growth and development in Africa.

The chip-embedded passport project was initiated in 2016 and is being rolled out through a Build, Operate, and Transfer arrangement with Biometric Travel Solutions Limited, a private Ghanaian firm. The initiative aims to bring Ghana’s passports into full compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) regulations and rapidly evolving global interoperability standards for biometric identification.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has streamlined its passport application process to enhance efficiency and effectiveness at Passport Application Centres (PACs) and Ghana’s Missions abroad. The initiative also includes enhancements to operational procedures, the introduction of suitable technologies, and the provision of necessary infrastructure to support PAC operations.

The launch of the chip-embedded passport signifies a new chapter in Ghana’s journey toward modernization. President Akufo-Addo praised the collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and various stakeholders, emphasizing the strategic importance of public-private partnerships in driving national development.

Minister Ayorkor Botchwey 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 said. “Our efforts reflect a vision of a safer, more connected world for our citizens.”

Source: GBC Ghana Online

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December 3, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team