Ghana has embarked on a commendable step towards the modernisation of her travel identity system with the official launch of a new chip-embedded passport. The introduction of the chip-embedded passport is in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) regulations. It also underscores the fulfilment of one of Ghana’s Foreign Policy objectives, which is to promote the respect for international law and treaty obligations. The launch of the chip-embedded passport on Monday, 2nd December, 2024 is a bold testament on Ghana’s continued commitment to innovation in security and global connectivity.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Republic, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo noted that the chip-embedded passport represents a major leap forward for the nation. He said it is not just a travel document but also a symbol of the country’s resilient progress and readiness to embrace the future with confidence.
President Akufo-Addo also emphasised the cultural significance of the chip-embedded passport. He mentioned that the design incorporates elements of Ghana’s rich heritage, such as the Adinkra symbols – “Fawohodie” (Freedom and Independence) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy and Cooperation). These symbolize the nation’s values of resilience, unity, and progress.
“The launch of this passport is not just about technology, it is a celebration of our identity and our collective aspirations as a people,” he added.
He commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and all stakeholders in both the public and private sectors who worked to ensure the successful implementation of the chip-embedded passport project. As Ghana prepares for its upcoming general elections, the President urged citizens to uphold the nation’s values of peace, unity, and democratic integrity.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, in her remarks stressed the significance of the upgrade from the basic biometric to the chip-embedded passport. “The chip-embedded passport is a manifestation of our sincere dedication to efficiency, security, and adherence to international standards as it places Ghana at the forefront of technological development within the African sub-region”, she added.
Hon. Ayorkor Botchwey further stated that the chip-embedded passport has been designed with enhanced document security features, which would help to prevent identity theft. The passport application process has also been streamlined to make it more accessible and friendly to all citizens – both at home and abroad. She assured that the upgrade ensured that the system is free from exploitation. The microchip embedded in each passport securely holds biometric data and other unique security features, ensuring that the document is tamper-proof. This will give holders of the passport the assurance of security and confidence as they move across international borders.
The Minister stated that, the introduction of the chip-embedded passport is part of the broader effort to create a modern, transparent, and efficient passport administration system befitting of Ghana’s stature among the Comity of States, and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to continuous innovation and the protection of her enviable national identity. Stating, “This new era in passport security and accessibility is just the beginning, it marks the start of a new chapter where Ghana takes its rightful place on the global stage, empowered by technology and united in our aspirations for progress.
As the new passport is rolled out, the Ministry has also introduced an enhanced online passport application system and modernized infrastructure across Passport Application Centers (PACs) nationwide and at Ghanaian Missions abroad. These improvements are meant to eliminate fraudulent activities and ensure timely and secure passport issuance to all Ghanaians.