Mahama’s 24-hour economy plan to begin with passport office, Foreign Minister—Ablakwa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, headed by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced plans to introduce 24-hour operations at the passport office and Ghana’s foreign missions as part of President John Mahama’s push for a round-the-clock economy.

Addressing Ministry staff on Monday, February 10, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa said this act would improve passport processing, reduce delays, and create jobs in the country.

In his statement, the Minister 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 also called for fully digitalizing passport services and integrating biometric data across government institutions to eliminate duplication.

Hon. Samuel Ablakwa and President Mahama

He criticized that the current system, where agencies such as the Passport Office, National Identification Authority (NIA), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and health services all gather biometric data separately is a needless waste of time and resources,” he said “If the government already has your biometrics, why should you be required to submit them again for a passport renewal?

He added that discussions had begun with a foreign counterpart to bring in technical experts to assist with integrating biometric databases.

The Minister further announced the establishment of a committee on Migration and Welfare of Ghanaians in the Diaspora to tackle the exploitation of Ghanaian migrant workers.

He lamented that many Ghanaians working abroad are subjected to abuse due to weak regulations, with some having their passports seized and wages unfairly deducted by varlet 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,”

As he concluded, he assured the ministry’s staff that their welfare remains a priority, recalling his past advocacy as ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee for improved working conditions, including restoring duty releases for returning officers.

He urged them to support ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing Ghana’s foreign services and strengthening their economic role.