Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced the rollout of a new chip-embedded passport, set to replace the current biometric version starting April 28, 2025.
The document aligns with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and incorporates elements of Ghana’s cultural heritage, including Adinkra symbols such as Fawohodie (Freedom and Independence) and Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu (Democracy and Cooperation).
The upgraded passport includes a microchip storing biometric data like fingerprints and facial recognition, linked to the National Identification Authority (NIA) for seamless verification.
Ablakwa warned middlemen, colloquially known as “Goro boys,” to cease operations, emphasizing that the fully digital application process leaves no room for manual interference.
“Anyone found circumventing the system will face severe penalties,” he stated.
The Minister confirmed that the Mahama administration conducted a comprehensive review of passport processes to align with broader reforms, including enhanced security and efficiency.
“After the election the new Mahama administration conducted thorough review with the objective of aligning with the new broad vision for passport reforms in Ghana.
“This travel document embodies our commitment to security, innovation and international standard”, he added.
Ablakwa explained that Ghana’s transition to chip-embedded passports traces back to 2010, when biometric passports were first introduced. Plans to integrate microchips were revived in 2016 but faced delays until 2018, when the previous government formed a committee to advance the project. After partnering with private firms, a pilot version was launched on December 2, 2024, paving the way for the April 2025 nationwide rollout.
During the press conference, Ablakwa described the initiative as a “milestone in Ghana’s document security history,” crediting years of collaboration between government agencies and private stakeholders.
He reiterated that the new passport prioritizes anti-fraud measures and global interoperability, positioning Ghana among nations adopting cutting-edge travel technology.
Source: www.kumasimail.com / Kwadwo Owusu
