On a working visit to the Ashanti Regional Passport Application Centre in Kumasi, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the procurement of twenty pickup vehicles for passport offices nationwide. The move aims to address logistical bottlenecks that have hampered staff mobility and the delivery of mobile passport services.
During his tour, the minister noted that the Kumasi centre currently operates with a single vehicle, placing strain on its operations. The new pickups will equip each of the 16 regions, plus the Greater Accra headquarters, with the resources needed to carry out their duties more efficiently.
“We have purchased 20 pickups for all the passport application centres. Ashanti Region is going to get one. All the 16 regions are going to get one each, and then Greater Accra headquarters has the Accra Park. They are all going to receive those brand‑new pickups,” the minister said.
Beyond vehicle provision, Ablakwa revealed plans to renovate the Kumasi centre, citing the poor condition of furniture and other equipment. He said the ministry would earmark funds for the refurbishment in its 2027 budget after observing the facility’s state during his visit.
The Accra Passport Application Centre had already received renovations in 2026, and Kumasi is expected to benefit from a similar intervention next year. The minister assured staff that their welfare remained a priority and that the ministry would continue to tackle logistical and infrastructural challenges affecting passport offices nationwide.
The procurement and renovation plans are part of broader efforts to improve working conditions at passport application centres and strengthen service delivery across the country.
