Foreign Affairs Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has announced that the newly introduced chip-embedded passports will strengthen protections against identity theft for Ghanaians.
Launching the passports at the Accra International Conference Centre on Monday, December 2, she stated that the new documents replace the biometric passports by offering a significant technological upgrade.
“Transitioning from the biometric passport to the historic chip-embedded passport reflects our commitment to efficiency, security, and adherence to international standards.
Further, she noted that the biometric passports, while reliable for over a decade, can no longer keep pace with modern technological demands.
The chip-embedded passports prevent tampering with personal information and block unauthorized access to biometric data.Ghana, as the gateway to Africa, must lead in adopting advanced security technologies to meet global standards, counter emerging threats, and drive development.”
Additionally, highlighting the government’s broader digitisation agenda, she credited the Vice President’s leadership for advancing initiatives that include the new passports.
“The-passports will reduce the turnaround time for passport issuance while making travel safer and more convenient for all Ghanaians.