Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has shared that the number of passport applications dropped by 20,000 in the past year after the previous administration raised passport fees.

Speaking at a community event held at Ghana’s Consulate-General in Lagos, Nigeria, the Minister criticized the fee increase, calling it a harsh decision that negatively affected both Ghanaians at home and abroad.

During the meeting, members of the Ghanaian diaspora voiced their dissatisfaction with the high costs of acquiring passports.

In response, Ablakwa assured the audience that the government is actively considering a reduction in passport fees for Ghanaians living abroad, just as it had already done for those within the country.

He further explained that the government is currently reviewing the Fees and Charges Act and assured that the concerns raised by the diaspora would be part of that review process.

Ablakwa also emphasized the administration's dedication to easing the financial and bureaucratic burdens on Ghanaians wherever they are.

He mentioned that the government plans to work with the National Identification Authority to register Ghanaians abroad, a move aimed at improving the accuracy of data and making access to services more efficient for citizens living outside Ghana.

Updating the audience on the government's ongoing reforms, the Minister reiterated the removal of the electronic transfer levy (e-levy), the betting tax, and the emissions levy.

“We are determined to deliver on our promises and ensure relief reaches all Ghanaians,” he affirmed.