The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has unveiled plans to introduce a courier system to address the growing backlog of 70,000 unclaimed passports across the country.

The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and ensure that applicants receive their passports without unnecessary delays.

Speaking in an interview with TV3, Ablakwa disclosed that an immediate audit would be conducted to verify applicants' details and facilitate the seamless distribution of passports.

“We will roll out a courier system so that applicants can receive their passports wherever they are. There must be a clear indication of who the applicants are, and if addresses are available, we will call them,” he stated.

Beyond the courier system, the minister emphasised the importance of digitisation and operational reforms at the passport office.

He noted that these measures would not only streamline passport processing but also enhance overall efficiency in service delivery.

Addressing concerns about the issuance of diplomatic passports, Ablakwa expressed dissatisfaction with the current system, insisting that such passports should be strictly reserved for government officials and foreign service personnel.

He warned against abuse and called for stricter regulations to uphold Ghana’s international reputation.

To curb misuse and reinforce accountability, the minister announced plans for a comprehensive review of the diplomatic passport issuance process.

This reform, he said, would bring greater transparency and safeguard the integrity of the country’s passport system.