PRESS RELEASE
Aided by biometric data, the
authorities will be able to account accurately for everyone entering and leaving
the country
Gemalto
(Euronext NL0000400653) , the
world leader in digital security, has been appointed as prime contractor and
turnkey supplier to provide Ghana Immigration Services (GIS) with a highly
secure electronic visa and border management solution. This initiative is part
of the eGhana project, an ambitious plan with backing from the World Bank to
create a modern IT infrastructure that can support the country’s sustainable
development plans in the years ahead.
With a population of 24 million,
the Republic of Ghana is experiencing rapid expansion of cross-border travel.
Recognizing the need to improve the security and efficiency of its existing
procedures, the country’s immigration service has turned to Gemalto to deliver
the benefits of a country-wide electronic border management system based on
biometric authentication.
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.
The company will deploy border
management systems at Ghana’s main ports of arrival and will implement a fully
computerized system for visa and permit applications processing and issuing,
with the collaboration of Avalon Biometrics. The project also covers the set up
of an online portal service for visa application, and the implementation of
electronic gates at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport, for rapid, convenient
and automated border control of arrivals and departures.
This
mission-critical solution will streamline processes, reinforce national security
and provide the GIS with enhanced border information and intelligence. Aided by
biometric data, the authorities will be able to account accurately for everyone
entering and leaving the country. The system will also improve the traveling
experience, delivering faster and significantly more convenient border control
procedures for visitors.
“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 Ghana Immigration Service. “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”.
“This advanced electronic identity
management system is fundamental to the whole eGhana project,” said Ari Bouzbib,
Senior Vice President for Government Programs at Gemalto. “It will put the
country’s border control processes on par with the latest, cutting-edge
practices worldwide. In addition to helping to transform Ghana, it can serve as
a template for modernization across many other countries in Africa.”
Distributed by the African Press
Organization on behalf of Gemalto.
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