Ghanaians holding the national ID card, commonly known as the Ghana Card, will no longer need to undergo traditional immigration checks upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport. This is due to the launch of the E-Gates at the airport’s arrival section, designed to streamline the immigration process.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President and Presidential Candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who previously announced the initiative during his campaign, emphasized that the introduction of the E-Gates would ease the stress for passengers. With the Ghana Card, passengers’ identities can now be verified swiftly without the need for manual checks. Dr. Bawumia highlighted that in light of significant advancements in global transport systems, Ghana must embrace such innovations to stay competitive.
The E-Gate initiative, which uses biometric technology to verify passengers’ identities, will eventually be expanded to other airports and border points across the country. These electronic gates utilize automated passport control systems that scan passports and Ghana Card ID cards, capturing passengers’ facial features for comparison with the digital image stored in their documents’ microchips.
Dr. Bawumia noted that the E-Gates are a testament to Ghana’s digitalization agenda, which has introduced innovations such as mobile money interoperability, drone delivery of essential medicines, the digital address system, and the Ghana Card. These advancements are helping Ghana leverage opportunities in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
He also stressed that the introduction of the E-Gates would place Ghana ahead of many developed countries in terms of border control efficiency. The new system will help reduce long queues at immigration, provide real-time customer service for passengers, and enhance border security. The system is built using cutting-edge technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and real-time data processing, ensuring a frictionless, secure travel experience.
The E-Gates are also designed to be expanded to major airports in the country, including Tamale and Kumasi, offering greater convenience and setting a new standard for international travel.
Interior Minister Henry Quartey emphasized that the security of the country is paramount, and the E-Gates would significantly improve the ability to track passengers effectively. He urged the public to embrace this technological advancement as a step forward for Ghana.
Engineer Charles Kraku, Director of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), explained that the E-Gates would enhance security oversight in the country. He also noted that the system would reduce waiting times and provide passengers with a more pleasant experience.
The Comptroller General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Lawyer Kwame Asuah-Takyi, described the E-Gates as a significant milestone, highlighting the collaboration between the GCAA, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Airports Company, and Margins Group to improve airport operations. He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the E-Gates a reality.
Currently, six E-Gates have been installed at the arrival section of Terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport to facilitate the process. This development marks a significant step in enhancing Ghana’s border management system.