President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has marked a major milestone in Ghana’s digital transformation with the launch of a new chip-embedded passport. The historic ceremony, held on December 2, 2024, in Accra, symbolizes the nation’s progress in modernizing its travel documents and enhancing security for citizens.
The new passport is equipped with advanced biometric technology, featuring a microprocessor that securely stores the holder’s biometric data, photograph, and other unique identifiers. This state-of-the-art design makes it nearly impossible for fraudsters or non-citizens to obtain Ghanaian travel documents.
Speaking at the event, President Akufo-Addo expressed pride in this achievement, describing the e-Passport as more than just a travel document. “Today is a day of pride and joy for our beloved Ghana. The e-Passport is a symbol of our progress, resilience, and readiness to embrace the future with confidence,” he stated. The President highlighted that the transition to chip-embedded passports aligns with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), ensuring global interoperability for Ghanaian travelers.
The launch was graced by key dignitaries, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who presented the first chip-embedded passport to the President. The project, initiated eight years ago, was implemented under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) partnership with Biometric Travel Solutions Limited, a private Ghanaian firm.
The new passport design reflects Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, incorporating Adinkra symbols such as “Fawohodie” (Freedom and Independence) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy and Cooperation). These elements celebrate national identity while blending seamlessly with cutting-edge technology.
This innovation is expected to significantly reduce the time required for passport issuance and improve travel security for citizens. The government has also streamlined the passport application process, enhancing efficiency at Passport Application Centres (PACs) and Ghanaian embassies worldwide.
President Akufo-Addo’s launch of the chip-embedded passport is a testament to Ghana’s commitment to technological advancement and global integration.