We’ll ease the burden – Minister promises diaspora relief on passport costs

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced a drop in passport applications. Applications decreased by 20,000 over the past year. This decline followed an increase in fees by the previous administration.

Ablakwa called the fee hike overly harsh. He noted it particularly affected Ghanaians living abroad. He assured that corrective measures are being planned.

While speaking to Ghanaians in Lagos, Nigeria, he acknowledged the fee impact. He promised efforts to ease this burden for those overseas. Similar interventions have already been introduced for applicants in Ghana.

“Passport fees were a major concern during our community engagement,” he said at Ghana’s Consulate-General meeting. “We are reviewing the Fees and Charges Act. Your concerns about passport fees will be considered.”

He also mentioned plans to work with the National Identification Authority (NIA). They aim to register Ghanaians living overseas. This move is expected to improve access to national services and identity systems.

The minister updated attendees on progress back home. He highlighted recent policy reversals by the new administration. “Our government has abolished the e-levy, betting tax, and emissions levy,” he stated.

He assured attendees that the government is committed to its promises. The event in Lagos had a large turnout, marking his biggest gathering yet. This shows strong interest among the diaspora in national developments and policy reforms.