Dutch company Gemalto has been contracted by the Ghanaian government to provide a computerised system for the Ghana Immigration Services (GIS), as part of the eGhana project.
The company will implement a fully computerised system for visa and permit applications processing and issuing. This will be done with the collaboration of Avalon Biometrics for accurate identification.
“Gemalto acts as prime contractor and will take responsibility for integrating the advanced visa and border management solution, including change management, transitional training and maintenance services,” a statement from Gemalto said.
The project will also cover the establishment of electronic gates at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport, easing visa processing and access to airport sections for travellers.
“To maintain Ghana’s economic development, we need an immigration system that can meet the challenges of rapid growth in international travel,” said Commissioner of Police Dr Peter A. Wiredu, director of GIS.
“Gemalto contributed to over 80 successful government programs worldwide and has all the required project management skills, reputation and expertise to deliver the country’s new IT infrastructure.”
Ari Bouzbib, senior vice president for government programs at Gemalto, commended the project, stating it will put the country’s border control at par with the latest technology.
“This advanced electronic identity management system is fundamental to the whole eGhana project,” said Bouzbib. “In addition to helping to transform Ghana, it can serve as a template for modernization across many other countries in Africa.”
The eGhana project aims to create a modern IT infrastructure that can support the country’s sustainable development and is supported by the World Bank.
