Report by Victoria Anima Akomea – 4/04/2024
The recent increase in passport fees in Ghana has sparked concerns among citizens regarding potential financial strain. Foreign Affairs Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has sought to address these concerns by providing clarification on the government’s rationale behind the fee adjustment.
Minister Botchwey emphasized that the Ghanaian government currently subsidizes passport costs significantly, with each passport costing GH¢400 to produce, of which the applicant pays GH₵100 while the state absorbs the remaining GH¢300. However, this subsidy has become unsustainable and is affecting operational efficiency.
Minister Botchwey highlighted the prolonged processing times for passports, attributing it partly to the heavy subsidy provided by the government. By adjusting the fees, the government aims to streamline operations and provide more efficient services to applicants.
The decision to increase passport fees underwent a parliamentary process, indicating a thorough consideration of the implications and necessity of the adjustment. Minister Botchwey emphasized that the government has no intention of burdening Ghanaians financially but rather aims to ensure that fees align with the cost of service provision.
While the fee increase may pose a challenge for some citizens, Minister Botchwey urged those who can’t afford passports or don’t require them due to alternative forms of identification, such as the Ghana Card, to refrain from applying. This approach aims to prioritize passport issuance for those who genuinely need it.
The Minister highlighted the increasing prominence of the Ghana Card as the primary identification document, reducing the necessity of passports for domestic identification purposes. This shift reflects evolving government policies aimed at streamlining identification processes and reducing redundancy.
In conclusion, Minister Botchwey’s clarification on the passport fee increase underscores the government’s commitment to balancing financial considerations with the need for efficient service delivery. By providing transparency regarding the reasons for the fee adjustment and urging responsible passport application, the government aims to mitigate potential hardships for citizens while ensuring the sustainability of passport issuance operations in Ghana.
