Ghana to Expand Visa-Free Travel Deals as Passport Reforms Gain Momentum

Ghana is set to sign additional visa waiver agreements in the coming months as part of a broader strategy to enhance the strength and global competitiveness of the Ghanaian passport, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced.

Speaking to journalists after bilateral meetings on the margins of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mr Ablakwa described visa waiver arrangements as a key priority for the Foreign Ministry. He indicated that a series of major announcements would begin in March and continue through April and May.

Visa-free travel, he stressed, remains central to the government’s diplomatic agenda for the year. “You know that visa waiver agreements remain my priority as Foreign Minister. I expect more visa waiver agreements this year. Even within the month of March, you’ll be hearing some good news,” he said.

Passport Security Upgrades

The Minister expressed confidence that Ghana is on course to securing one of the most valuable passports in Africa and beyond. He highlighted recent technological upgrades, noting that the Ghanaian passport now features full chip-embedded technology and enhanced security systems designed to meet global standards.

According to him, the new passport ranks among the most secure in terms of its safety features, placing Ghana ahead of several countries in document security innovation.

Mr Ablakwa further assured that government has intensified efforts to curb fraudulent acquisition of passports. Artificial intelligence driven systems and modern verification tools, he said, have been deployed to outpace criminal networks engaged in document fraud.

30 Percent Reduction in Fees

On accessibility, the Minister referenced the recent 30 percent reduction in passport application fees, reiterating the government’s position that passports should not be treated as luxury items.

“For Ghanaians to have passports, it is a right. Passports should not be a luxury. It’s our national pride. It’s our national identity,” he emphasised.

UN Resolution on Transatlantic Slave Trade

On the multilateral front, Mr Ablakwa described deliberations at the AU Summit as substantive and constructive. He disclosed that Ghana’s draft United Nations resolution seeking global recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity has secured endorsement at the ministerial level.

The resolution is expected to be tabled on March 25 by President John Dramani Mahama, who has been designated by the African Union as champion on the issue. Heads of State are anticipated to formally endorse the draft.

The Minister noted that the proposal followed extensive consultations involving Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, United Nations Economic and Social Council, the African Union Committee of Experts, CARICOM, and other international stakeholders to ensure broad consensus and collective ownership.

President Mahama’s mandate on the matter has been extended for a decade, positioning Ghana to lead global advocacy efforts over the next ten years.

Following the AU engagements, President Mahama is expected to address the CARICOM Summit in St Kitts and Nevis, aimed at strengthening ties among people of African descent across Africa, the Caribbean and the Americas.

Commitment to Regional Unity

Meanwhile, Ghana has earned commendation for withdrawing its bid for a seat on the AU Peace and Security Council to allow for a united front within Economic Community of West African States.

Mr Ablakwa said the decision reflects Ghana’s enduring commitment to regional integration and Pan African solidarity, in line with the vision of the country’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah.

He expressed optimism that Ghana’s diplomatic posture and strategic engagements are steadily enhancing its influence on both the continental and global stage.