Bawumia unveils digital border control system and e-gates at Kotoka International Airport

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has launched an advanced digital border control system and e-gates at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra.

The initiative, which integrates biometric and facial recognition technologies, represents a major step forward in border management and positions Ghana as a leader in global travel innovation.  

The digital border control system allows Ghanaian citizens with the Ghanacard to bypass immigration officials and seamlessly pass through designated e-gates. Members of the diaspora and foreign visitors can also access the e-gates by pre-registering their biometric data and travel credentials.  

Speaking at the launch, Vice President Bawumia highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the project, describing it as a “monumental leap forward in border management.” 

He emphasised that the system, “designed and built by Ghanaians,” is “fully owned and managed by the Ghana Immigration Service.”  

Dr. Bawumia underlined the global significance of this development:  “The global travel landscape is evolving rapidly, with innovations such as biometric e-gates and Digital Travel Credentials becoming the new standard. Ghana has embraced these global advancements, integrating biometric verification and Digital Travel Credential technologies into a single platform. This dual capability positions Ghana as a pioneer in intelligent border control, aligning with global standards while placing us ahead of many advanced nations.”  

He added, “Our e-gates leverage cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, biometrics, and real-time data processing to create a frictionless and secure travel experience.”  

Future-ready border management  

Dr. Bawumia noted that Ghana is now fully prepared for the future of border management.
  
“Ghana is now prepared for the future of border management, with immense benefits to citizens, foreign travellers, and the nation,” he stated.  

“For Ghanaian citizens, this means expedited clearance at airports and border points. For members of the diaspora, the e-gates provide a smooth and efficient entry process, making their arrival in Ghana seamless and hassle-free. And for foreign visitors, Ghana becomes not only a welcoming destination but a leader in global travel infrastructure. These systems ensure that our borders are faster, safer, and more inclusive, setting a benchmark for modern border management.”  

Role of the Ghanacard

Dr. Bawumia attributed the success of Ghana’s integrated systems to the foundation laid by the Ghanacard.

“Today’s milestone builds on the solid foundation of Ghana’s National ID System and the Ghana Card—a comprehensive identity framework integrating biometric data, digital addresses, and personal identities into a secure platform. This framework has transformed service delivery across sectors.”  

He also acknowledged the Ghanacard’s recognition by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a valid e-passport, enabling Ghanaians to travel across 197 countries with the card.  

Expansion beyond KIA  

The Vice President revealed plans to extend the e-gate system beyond Kotoka International Airport.  

“This border control system is being introduced at Kotoka International Airport, Ghana’s flagship gateway, and will be expanded to all major airports, including Tamale and Kumasi, as well as all land and sea borders,” he disclosed.