The nominee for Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has vowed to introduce tech-driven upgrades to reform Ghana’s passport application and issuance system.

Addressing Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Wednesday, January 29, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized the urgent need for modernization to improve efficiency, accountability, and ease of access.

He acknowledged the frustrations citizens endure in acquiring passports, citing prolonged wait times, administrative hurdles, and claims of intermediaries manipulating the process.

"The other thing that I want to reform is our passport regime. There are too many complaints about how difficult it is to get passports and to get them in good time. I have been going through some briefs, and I noticed that we have a backlog of over 70,000 passports that have not been collected. Then there are issues with the middlemen, 'goro' boys and all of that," he said.

To address these challenges, he proposed integrating modern digital systems to optimize procedures, eradicate irregularities, and enhance service efficiency.

Mr. Ablakwa further assured the committee that, under his stewardship, the Foreign Affairs Ministry would roll out a user-friendly online application system and refine the biometric data enrollment process for applicants.

"I recall the former Foreign Minister, the Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, storming the passport office in frustration and saying that, 'look, this crisis cannot continue'. I would like to use technology to reform our passport regime. I don't think that we should still be requiring Ghanaians who have a Ghana Card to go to the passport office for their biometrics."