Ghana begins 24-Hour economy with passport office, foreign mission overhaul 

In a bid to implement President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for a round-the-clock economy, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Monday announced plans to introduce 24-hour operations at the passport office and Ghana’s foreign missions.

This move, according to the sector minister, aimed to improve passport processing, reduce delays, and create jobs.

He said, “The President strongly believes in a 24-hour economy, and this is one way we can implement it. Extending operations at the passport office will not only improve service delivery but also generate employment.”

Mr Ablakwa made the remarks during his inaugural address to the Ministry’s Management and staff, marking his first day on the job.

This significant speech set the tone for his tenure, outlining his vision and priorities for the Ministry.

He also emphasised the need for full digitalisation of passport services and the integration of biometric data across government institutions to eliminate duplication.

Mr Ablakwa criticised the current system, where multiple agencies collected biometric data separately, calling it a “needless waste of time and resources.”

Additionally, the Foreign Affairs Minister announced the establishment of a committee on Migration and Welfare of Ghanaians in the Diaspora to tackle the alleged exploitation of Ghanaian migrant workers.

He lamented the alleged abuse and mistreatment of Ghanaian workers abroad, citing weak regulations and rogue agents.

“… This must stop. Government-to-government agreements will help protect our citizens. When host countries know that the Ghanaian government is monitoring the welfare of its people, they will be treated with dignity,” he said.

The established committee will be given one month to propose measures to protect Ghanaian workers abroad and ensure migration policies yield economic benefits.

He assured ministry staff that their welfare remained a priority and urged them to support ongoing reforms aimed at modernising Ghana’s foreign services and strengthening their economic role.

GNA