A brand new chip-embedded polycarbonate passport with distinctive security options to boost broader safety, cut back identification fraud, and streamline worldwide travels for Ghanaians is being rolled out at this time by the Ministry of Overseas Affairs.
The security measures of the chip-embedded passport embody a nanotechnology and micro radio frequency identification (RFID) chips and a state-of-the-art multi-layer compressed polymer that assured the integrity of the doc towards typical doc crimes.
Talking at a information convention in Accra on Wednesday, the Minister of Overseas Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, mentioned the chip-embedded passport met the very best requirements of safety and authenticity because it aligned with the Worldwide Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements.
Mr Ablakwa acknowledged that the federal government was dedicated to the decentralisation of passport enrolment and issuance throughout the nation to make sure passport accessibility for all residents.
He indicated that 9 out of the 16 areas had passport workplaces and the federal government supposed to expand passport utility centres to the remaining six areas.
“We’re integrating our on-line passport utility, cost, and appointment reserving to permit from anyplace, in order that there shall be no congestion at passport offices,” Mr Ablakwa defined.
Mr Ablakwa mentioned a passport application monitoring system that had been linked to the Nationwide Identification Authority (NIA), could be launched to maintain candidates knowledgeable concerning the progress of their utility.
He mentioned that the method to encertain parliamentary approval of the associated fee discount of bizarre passport (32-page booklet) from GH¢500.00 to GH¢350.00 by amending the Charges and Charging Act had begun and could be accomplished when Parliament resumes.
Mr Ablakwa additionally mentioned that the 24-hour passport service with door-to-door supply would start from Monday, April 28, to make sure comfort, effectivity, and customer satisfaction.
“Candidates should present accucharge addresses and get in touch with particulars to facilitate seamless supply. In partnership with respected courier suppliers, the Ministry ensures safe and dependable passport in Ghana and overseas,” Mr Ablakwa mentioned.
He suggested the citizenry to directly work together with the official channels of the Ministry and cling to established procedures when making use of for, and renewing passports to keep away from intermediaries who exploit and reap the benefits of candidates.
Mr Ablakwa expressed gratitude to Mrs Hannah Tetteh and Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey for the position they’d performed within the introduction of the chip-embedded polycarbonate passport.
BY CYNTHIA ASAMPANA
