KEY POINTS
- Vice President Bawumia launches digital border control at KIA.
- Ghanacard enables faster, biometric-enabled travel for citizens.
- Plans for expanding e-gates to all major airports and borders.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has officially unveiled a new digital border control system and e-gates at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra.
The system, featuring advanced biometric and facial recognition technology, represents a major step forward for Ghana’s travel infrastructure.
However, the e-gates are designed to provide seamless and secure passage for travelers. Ghanaian citizens can now bypass immigration officers by using the Ghanacard, which allows them to access the e-gates with ease.
Foreign visitors and members of the diaspora can also use the e-gates by pre-registering their biometric information and travel credentials.
Furthermore, Bawumia highlighted the importance of the initiative, describing it as a “monumental leap forward” in border management. The system, he noted, is designed and built by Ghanaians and is fully owned and managed by the Ghana Immigration Service.
Future-ready technology positions Ghana as a leader
At the launch, Bawumia emphasized that Ghana is now fully prepared for the future of border management. He explained that the e-gates leverage cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, biometrics, and real-time data processing, which help create a smooth, secure travel experience for all passengers.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement,” Bawumia said, stressing that Ghana is now at the forefront of the global travel landscape.
“The global travel landscape is evolving rapidly with biometric verification and digital travel credentials becoming the new standard. Ghana is embracing these advancements, making us a pioneer in intelligent border control.”
For Ghanaians, this means faster clearance at airports and border points. Members of the diaspora will also benefit from a more efficient entry process. Additionally, foreign visitors will find Ghana not only a welcoming destination but also a leader in modern travel infrastructure.
Ghanacard’s pivotal role in the system’s success
Dr. Bawumia credited the success of the new system to the foundational role played by the Ghanacard. The card is part of Ghana’s National ID System and integrates biometric data, digital addresses, and personal identities into a secure framework.
Moreover, the Ghanacard has been recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a valid e-passport, allowing Ghanaians to travel across 197 countries using just the card.
This recognition has enhanced Ghana’s global standing and further strengthened the country’s position as a leader in modernizing border control.
Expansion of digital border control to other regions
Bawumia also announced plans to extend the digital border control system beyond KIA.
According to Graphic Online, he revealed that the e-gates would be implemented at major airports such as Tamale and Kumasi, as well as at all land and sea borders across the country.
“This is just the beginning,” Bawumia said, adding that the initiative would bring significant benefits to the entire nation.
The expanded system will ensure faster, safer, and more inclusive border management, positioning Ghana as a global leader in travel and border security.
