GHANA LAUNCHES BIOMETRIC E- PASSPORTS WITH EMBEDDED CHIPS TO MODERNIZE IDENTITY SYSTEM FROM APRIL 28.

Ghana is set to begin issuing chip-embedded biometric passports starting Monday, April 28, 2025, as part of major reforms in the country's passport administration. The initiative, announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional intergration,Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, aims to enhance passport security,eliminate the influence of middlemen, and improve transparency in the passport application process.

The passport contains a microchip that securely stores the bearer's biometric and photgraphic details which offers enhanced protection against identity theft and fraud. They are also designed to met up or align with international standards to replace the existing biometric ones.

Another key feature of the passport is its incorporation of traditional Adinkra symbols like Fawohodie (symbolising freedom and independence) and Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu ( representing cooperation and democracy) , celebrating Ghana's heritage.

As part of the boarder 2025 reform packages, the Minsiter ensure to also introduce 24 hours passport processing, Home delivery services, Electronic tracking system and reduce application fee by 30% to make the process more accessible.

Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa laid strong emphasis on government's commitment to provide a seamless and citizen-centered passport service free from the interferance of a third party.