The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has inaugurated two committees to oversee the rollout of a 24-hour passport application system and improve the welfare of Ghanaians living abroad.
Speaking on his first day in office, Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing passport processing and ensuring that Ghanaians in the diaspora receive better protection and support.
24-hour passport application committee
The first committee will focus on transforming Ghana’s passport application system into a 24-hour service. The minister stressed the need for full digitalization, integration of biometric databases, and the use of courier services to deliver passports directly to applicants.
“We shouldn’t have a situation where thousands of passports remain uncollected. If the government already has your biometrics, why should you have to provide them again for every application?” Ablakwa questioned.
The 24-hour passport service aligns with President Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy, which aims to create jobs and improve efficiency. Ablakwa highlighted that this system could potentially triple the current workforce at the passport office.
Migration and welfare of Ghanaians abroad committee
The second committee will focus on protecting Ghanaians working abroad, particularly those who have been exploited by unscrupulous agencies. Ablakwa emphasized the need for government-to-government agreements to regulate labor migration and ensure fair treatment of Ghanaian workers.
“Too many of our compatriots are being exploited. Their dignity is violated, their earnings are seized, and they are treated unfairly. This must change,” he stated.
Ablakwa pointed to successful migration policies in countries like Cuba and Indonesia, which have leveraged international labor agreements to benefit their economies. He believes Ghana can adopt a similar model to generate foreign direct investment while protecting its citizens abroad.
The minister has given both committees a one-month deadline to present their findings and recommendations. The goal is to immediately implement key interventions that will enhance passport processing efficiency and better regulate migration policies.
As he concluded, Ablakwa assured Foreign Affairs Ministry staff that their welfare remains a top priority, promising to continue his long-standing advocacy for better working conditions and duty waivers for retiring officers.
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