Ghana Rolls Out Chip-Embedded Passports with Advanced Security Features to be launched on April 28, 2025 as announced by the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
According to the Minister, on April 28, 2025, Ghana will officially introduce chip-embedded passports, a significant upgrade to its travel identity system. The new passports, initially launched on December 2, 2024, by the previous administration under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, feature advanced biometric technology, including nanotechnology and RFID chips, ensuring enhanced security and compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
X Post: Ghana Rolls Out Chip-Embedded Passports – Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Exciting Reset Passport Reforms from Monday April 28, 2025:
1) Switch to Chip-Embedded Passports;
2) 24-Hour Operations;
3) Direct passport delivery at your convenience through courier;
4) e-Tracking System;
5) Delivery under 15 days;
6) Reduced Application Fees (from GHS500 to… pic.twitter.com/vT8s1oSf6U— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) April 24, 2025
Mr. Ablakwa highlighted additional reforms, such as 24-hour passport office operations, a 15-day delivery timeline, and a planned fee reduction from GHS500 to GHS350, pending parliamentary approval, aiming to improve efficiency and accessibility for Ghanaians.
The initiative has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some praising the reforms for their focus on convenience, like courier delivery and an e-tracking system, while others criticized Ablakwa for not acknowledging the previous government’s role in the project’s foundation.
The chip-embedded passports, first introduced in 2010 with biometric features, now incorporate Adinkra symbols like “Fawohodie” (Freedom) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy), reflecting Ghana’s cultural heritage alongside technological advancement. This upgrade positions Ghana as a leader in passport security within the African sub-region, aligning with global trends toward tamper-proof travel documents.
Despite the excitement, challenges remain, including the need for new passport offices in regions like Western North and ensuring the system remains free from exploitation by middlemen, as noted by Ablakwa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also modernized its online application system and infrastructure at Passport Application Centers nationwide to support the rollout. As Ghana embraces this technological leap, the Ghana chip-embedded passport launch in April 2025 with security features marks a pivotal step toward global connectivity and national pride.
