The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has officially inaugurated a new Passport Application Centre (PAC) in Bolgatanga, aimed at improving access to passport services for residents in the Upper East Region.
Speaking at the ceremony on Thursday, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that national development must be inclusive and benefit citizens in all parts of the country.
“Development should not be confined to specific regions. Every Ghanaian, regardless of location, deserves equal access to government services,” he said.
He reiterated the government’s commitment, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to ensure that every region has a fully operational Passport Application Centre by the end of December 2025.
Community and Institutional Support
The minister highlighted the collaborative effort that made the Bolgatanga project a success. He acknowledged the Alagobe Association for mobilizing resources to renovate the facility and commended the Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB) for providing the property without restrictions.
“There was total community ownership in this project, and that is what made it successful,” Mr. Ablakwa noted.
Enhanced Security and Service Reforms
Addressing public concerns about passport fraud, the minister assured citizens that stringent measures have been implemented to safeguard the integrity of Ghanaian passports.
“We are always a step ahead of those attempting to obtain Ghanaian passports fraudulently. All passport officers have been retrained, and new vetting systems are in place,” he said.
He also announced a major reform in the passport delivery process, making it more convenient for applicants.
“For the first time in Ghana’s history, applicants will no longer have to return to the centre to collect their passports. We have introduced a courier service that delivers passports directly to applicants’ homes or offices,” Mr. Ablakwa explained.
Government’s Continued Commitment
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Dominic Akamugiri Atanga, praised the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of government’s responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
“The establishment of this centre is not just a formality; it represents the government’s genuine commitment to bringing essential services closer to the people,” he stated.
Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed that the inauguration of the Bolgatanga Passport Application Centre is part of a broader national effort to promote inclusion and equitable access to essential services across all regions.
Source: modernghana.com
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