The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) on Thursday, 23rd October, 2025, commissioned the Passport Application Centre (PAC) in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region. The establishment of the Application Centre is a mark of determination by the Ministry to decentralise passport service and make it more accessible to citizens across the country.
With the opening of Bolgatanga PAC, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs now operates Passport Application Centres in ten (10) out of the sixteen (16) regions of Ghana. Efforts are still ongoing to ensure that services are brought close to all citizens nationwide to reduce the burden of applicants travelling long distances to either acquire or renew their passports. The Minister used the opportunity to advise applicants to desist from the use of intermediaries in passport application and assured that by the end of the year; all the regions in Ghana would have application centres. He also informed of tightened security protocols and improved vetting process in passport acquisition. On passport reforms, he stated that passports are delivered to addresses provided by applicants at no cost and with the introduction of e-tracking, the status of the applications could be checked online. He stated that the courier company that would be serving the region is Ghana Post. Reiterating his call for applicants to refrain from the use of intermediaries, he advised that all queries should be addressed to the Information and Public Affairs Bureau (ipab@mfa.gov.gh) of the Ministry for redress.
The Honourable Minister indicated that the initiative reflects the Ministry’s commitment for efficient, transparent, and citizen-centred service delivery and emphasised the commitment of government in expanding the reach of passport services through the establishment of modern facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Seven (7) applicants had their passports handed over to them by the Minister during the event.
On his part, the Regional Minister, Honourable Donatus Akamugri Atanga lauded the initiative and said the commissioning of the Application Centre is not a mere ceremony but a symbol of hope and responsiveness of government to the needs of the citizens.
The Member of Parliament for Nabdam, Honourable Mark Kurt Nawaane representing the Upper East parliamentary caucus joined others to applaud government for ensuring equity in regional development.
Also present at the ceremony were the Regional Coordinating Director, Members of the Traditional Council, Heads of Security Agencies in the region, Municipal and District Chief Executives, Religious Leaders, among others.