The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has commissioned a new Passport Application Centre in the Oti Region, eliminating the need for residents to endure long journeys to Accra for biometric capture and passport collection.
The centre, inaugurated today, introduces several innovations including a 30% reduction in processing fees, electronic tracking (e-Tracking), courier delivery services, and special expedited same-day service. Standard delivery timelines have also been improved, with passports now available within 15 days.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that the initiative forms part of government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to public services across all 16 regions. He also announced heightened security measures to prevent foreigners from acquiring Ghanaian passports, noting Oti’s strategic position as a border region. The Minister disclosed that he had held a crucial meeting with regional security chiefs to secure their cooperation in safeguarding the integrity of the process.
“I am grateful to the eminent chiefs, Regional Minister, Members of Parliament, Municipal and District Chief Executives, MFA Directors and all partners for their support,” Mr. Ablakwa said. He added that the commissioning reflects President Mahama’s “Reset Agenda,” which pledges to leave no region behind in the delivery of essential public services.
The new centre is expected to ease pressure on existing facilities while strengthening national security and improving service delivery for citizens in the Oti Region and beyond.
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