Ghana Unveils High-Tech E-Passport to Tackle Identity Fraud – Minister Okudzato

Step aside impostors! Ghana is stepping up its passport game to clamp down on identity fraud with the launch of its cutting-edge chip-embedded passport, also known as the e-passport. This new initiative by the Ghanaian government, led by the illustrious Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represents a revolutionary leap towards bolstering security measures and thwarting counterfeit activities with enhanced features that adhere to global standards.

During a prestigious ceremony held in Accra, the distinguished Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzato Ablakwa, proudly unveiled the new e-passport design adorned with iconic symbols of Ghanaian heritage such as the resonant ‘Fawohodie’ (Freedom and Independence) and ‘Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu’ (Democracy and Cooperation) Adinkra motifs. Minister Ablakwa emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to providing Ghanaians a hassle-free and direct passport service, untouched by third-party meddling.

Crafted with advanced security technologies including nanotechnology and RFID chips, the e-passport renders forgery a near-impossible feat. Moreover, Ghana’s passport modernization drive aims to expedite passport delivery with a reliable and traceable courier service covering all 16 regions, offering a generous 30% reduction in application fees to alleviate the backlog of over 70,000 unclaimed passports. Minister Ablakwa empathically declared, “We hear your frustrations, and we’re here to put your worries to rest.”

Fluttering with pride, the Minister marked the official production of the first chip-embedded passport on this auspicious April 28, 2025. This monumental leap follows Ghana’s initial strides towards biometric passports in 2010, evolving to integrate microchips laced with biometric data to fortify document integrity. With an eye on international benchmarks set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and its guidelines for secure travel documents like Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs) and ePassports, Ghana continues to collaborate with a global network of partners and experts to uphold the gold standard of passport authenticity.

In a bold and resolute stance against fraudulent acts, Minister Okudzato dismissed the era of middlemen and illicit agents operating within passport offices, urging citizens to directly engage with official channels and adhere to prescribed protocols. The announcement of a groundbreaking 24-hour passport service, complete with door-to-door delivery, effective as of today, underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to superior service, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction.

Ghana’s e-passport revolution heralds a new chapter in travel security, poised to fortify border control, reduce identity fraud, and streamline international mobility for its proud citizens.