Bolgatanga Welcomes First-Ever Passport Application Centre Inaugurated
In a momentous step toward inclusive development and improved public service delivery, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, under the leadership of Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has officially inaugurated the Bolgatanga Passport Application Centre (PAC) in the Upper East Regional capital. Apexnewsgh reports This landmark initiative forms part of the government’s broader commitment to decentralising passport services, thus ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of geographic location, enjoys equitable access to essential documentation. For decades, residents of the Upper East Region and its surrounding communities faced significant hurdles in obtaining or renewing their passports. The closest PACs were located in Tamale and Kumasi, forcing applicants to embark on long, costly, and often inconvenient journeys, sometimes spanning over three hours, just to complete the process. For a region with a population exceeding 1.3 million, this meant countless hours lost, added financial burdens, and unnecessary risks on the road. The opening of the Bolgatanga PAC signals an end to these challenges. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Ablakwa acknowledged the historical significance of the day: “This is the first time in the history of the Upper East Region that we are opening a Passport Application Centre. Today, we are making history. It should not have taken us this long, but as they say, better late than never.” He further emphasized that development must be inclusive and not limited to a select few regions: “Government services must be made available to all parts of Ghana so that all of us can feel a part of our national progress and transformation.” The story of the Bolgatanga PAC is also one of community spirit and collaboration. The Alagumgube Association, a local group with its founder, Gabriel Agambila, played a pivotal role by mobilizing resources to assist in the renovation of the facility, originally a Ghana Commercial Bank property. The bank readily handed over the building for conversion, removing all obstacles to the project. Regional authorities also demonstrated keen interest, with the regional minister reaching out for the Ministry’s approval and support. Hon. Ablakwa praised the sense of unity, stating, “What we celebrate today is a mark of togetherness, of unity, of community support where we all come together.” The Minister was quick to commend the Ministry’s staff, who undertook long journeys and tireless nights to ensure that the new centre met the exacting standards required for a modern passport office. This included directors from various departments, Finance, Passport, Consulate in Humanitarian Affairs Bureau (COHAB), and Information Public Affairs Bureau (IPAP), alongside private partners and courier companies, all combining their efforts for a seamless launch. The Bolgatanga PAC is a key milestone in a nationwide agenda. Until now, seven regions in Ghana lacked a passport application centre. With the new addition, that number is down to six, and Hon. Ablakwa has set an ambitious target: by the end of 2025, every one of Ghana’s 16 regions will have its own PAC. “We are putting in the resources, we are putting in the effort, and I am very confident that by the end of this year, all 16 regions in Ghana will have passport application centers,” he assured. This commitment, he explained, stems from the government’s belief that development must be inclusive, reaching every corner of the country. He reminded attendees that the acquisition of a passport is a right, not a privilege, for every Ghanaian citizen. The Bolgatanga PAC is not just about access; it also represents a leap forward in security and efficiency. Ghanaian passports are now highly sought after, particularly following successful negotiations for visa waivers and the country’s removal from the US sanction list. As a result, demand for Ghanaian passports has surged, particularly in border regions like Upper East, which shares a boundary with Burkina Faso. Hon. Ablakwa assured the public that robust security protocols are in place to prevent fraudulent passport acquisition. All PACs across Ghana are networked and powered by advanced AI technology. “Once you are blacklisted here in Bolga, immediately, in real time, you are blacklisted at all passport application centers across the country,” he explained, highlighting a new era of digital vigilance. “We have retrained all our passport application offices. There is absolutely no way that we are going to allow the Ghanaian passport to be easily obtained by any foreigner.” The Minister also discussed a suite of customer-focused reforms designed to make the passport process more convenient than ever. Notably, applicants no longer need to return to the PAC to receive their passports; instead, Ghana Post now delivers completed passports directly to applicants’ homes or offices. An e-tracking system allows applicants to monitor the status of their applications in real time. Additionally, the Ministry guarantees that passports will be ready within 15 working days, with an expedited service available for those who need their documents even faster, sometimes in as little as three days. The Bolgatanga PAC is equipped to issue Ghana’s latest generation of chip-embedded passports, compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These modern documents offer enhanced security features and durability, ensuring their holders enjoy a smooth experience both locally and internationally. Hon. Ablakwa demonstrated the effectiveness of the new system by surprising the first seven citizens of Bolgatanga, who had earlier completed their biometrics, with their new chip-embedded passports—ready in under five days. “We mean business,” he declared, “This is not some white elephant commissioning. Once we commission, the passport application officials will start work immediately. And those of you who don’t have passports can apply immediately.” Residents of the Upper East Region seeking passport services can now contact the Bolgatanga PAC via email at ipab@mfa.gov.ghOpens a new window or by phone at +233 240 913 284 and +233 240 793 072. For updates and further information, the Ministry maintains an active presence on its official X (Twitter) handle, @GhanaMFA. Citizens are encouraged to take advantage of the Ministry’s online application platform for faster, more efficient processing and to utilize the new centre for all passport-related needs. The inauguration of the
ALAGUMGUBE Inaugurates 6th Chapter in Suyani, Bono Region
The Association of ALAGUMGUBE has successfully inaugurated its 6th chapter in Suyani, Bono Region. Apexnewsgh reports The inauguration ceremony was attended by members from chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4, who rallied in large numbers to show their support for the newly created chapter. In his address, Mr. Moses Agbigne, the Bono East Chairman, urged the newly inaugurated chapter to stay focused on the main agenda of the association, which is the development of the region and country. He advised them not to be swayed by negative comments from outsiders, but instead to remain committed to their goals. Mr. Martin Abiriya, the Global Educationist of ALAGUMGUBE, also addressed the gathering, advising members to make a conscious effort to preserve their cultural heritage. He encouraged them to name their children in the Gurune language, to keep the culture alive beyond their generation. The founder of the association, Mr. Gabriel Agambila, provided an update on the airport and passport office, and expressed his gratitude to the host region for their hospitality towards the team from other chapters. He thanked the Bono Region for taking good care of the team, making their stay comfortable and enjoyable. The inauguration of the 6th chapter marks a significant milestone for ALAGUMGUBE, and the association is expected to continue its work in promoting development and cultural preservation in the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Expands with Inauguration of Kumasi Branch
Alagumgube, a community development association, has taken a significant step in its expansion journey with the inauguration of its new branch in Kumasi. Apexnewsgh reports The event, which took place on April 27, 2024, at Plus 2 Pub in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, was attended by local and international dignitaries. The founder of Alagumgube, Mr. Gabriel Agambila, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the association’s vision and its dedication to the development of the Upper East Region. He highlighted the strategic importance of opening a branch in Kumasi, a hub that would facilitate the association’s growth and impact. The program featured live cultural performances and refreshments, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Many attendees shared their opinions about the association and made generous contributions, expressing strong encouragement for Alagumgube to continue its impactful work. The newly appointed interim executives of the Kumasi branch were officially sworn in by Mr. Agambila. The executives include Margaret Apana as Chairperson, Faustina Akunyana as Secretary, Hamza Salifu as Public Relations Officer, and Hawa Sulemana and Yakubu Razak as Organizing Secretary and Deputy Organizing Secretary, respectively. On behalf of the newly sworn-in executives, Chairperson Margaret Apana expressed gratitude to all guests and members for honoring the invitation. She reaffirmed the commitment of the executives to work diligently toward the development of the Upper East Region and called on everyone to support the association’s vision in any way they can. The inauguration ended on a high note, further strengthening Alagumgube’s presence in the region and reinforcing its commitment to community development. With this new branch, Alagumgube is poised to make a greater impact in the lives of people in the Upper East Region and beyond. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Association Boosts Bolga Hospital Maternal Care with Generous Donation
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Alagumgube Association has donated essential items to the Maternity Ward of the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital. Apexnewsgh reports The donation, facilitated by Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla, Acting President of the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, aims to support maternal and newborn care in the region. The donated items, which include 2 walkers, 2 beds, 10 mattresses, and 10 pillows, will undoubtedly enhance the resources available at the facility. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla emphasized the importance of maternal health in community development. “The health of our community begins with the health of our mothers and children. Every mother deserves quality care, and every newborn deserves a strong start in life,” he stated. The Alagumgube Association’s commitment to giving back to society and strengthening healthcare services in the region is truly commendable. Their donation serves as a shining example of the power of collective efforts to improve lives. As Naba Asalia Patrick Ayimbilla noted, “We believe this contribution will help improve conditions at the maternity ward and provide much-needed comfort for patients.” Dr. Saanwie Aiden, Medical Director of the hospital, expressed profound gratitude to the Alagumgube Association for their generous gesture. He assured the association that the donated items would be used for their intended purpose to benefit mothers and their newborns. The event, attended by traditional leaders, hospital officials, and members of the community, was a testament to the impact of community-driven initiatives. Other personalities present at donation ceremony include Gambibgo Chief Naba Sadik Ayine Inusah, Madam Habib Asuurebuno Alhassan and more. However, Mr. Gabriel Agambila who was also present during the donation event extended his appreciation on behalf of Alagumgube Association, “We are grateful to everyone who participated in the ceremony and thankful to the diaspora members for their timely contribution to the regional hospital donation.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com