Interior Minister pays maiden visit to Ghana Immigration Service

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced a major policy shift aimed at eliminating financial irregularities within the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

He revealed that all financial transactions conducted by the GIS and its affiliated agencies will soon be done electronically to prevent corruption and ensure accountability.

Speaking during his maiden visit to the GIS headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening border security and improving revenue collection.

“All monies collected would be done electronically. No one will receive money from anyone,” he stated, underscoring the government’s resolve to promote transparency within the sector.

He explained that advancements in technology would help transition cash services within the ministry to a fully digital system, making it easier to track and account for all funds flowing through GIS-related transactions.

The decision comes in response to persistent allegations of bribery and illicit cash payments at Ghana’s border posts.

Over the years, reports have surfaced regarding some immigration and customs officials allegedly amassing unexplained wealth through illegal fees collected from travelers and businesses.

These underhand dealings have deprived the state of substantial revenue and tarnished Ghana’s reputation internationally.

Many travelers and cross-border traders have shared experiences of being compelled to pay unreceipted fees to expedite entry or avoid unnecessary delays.

Investigations and media exposés have further highlighted corruption within the country’s immigration and customs services, prompting calls for urgent reforms.

Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak believes that transitioning to a fully electronic payment system will eliminate such illicit activities.

“Under the new system, payments for permits, visas, and other immigration services will be processed through secure digital platforms, making it easier to track transactions and reducing the risk of theft or misappropriation,” he assured.

The shift toward digital transactions aligns with Ghana’s broader push toward a cashless economy, which has already gained traction in banking, retail, and public services.

However, some stakeholders argue that the initiative may face resistance from individuals who have benefited from the loopholes in the existing cash-based system.

Despite potential challenges, the Interior Minister reaffirmed his commitment to seeing the initiative through, noting that it forms part of wider efforts to boost efficiency, improve service delivery, and safeguard the country’s borders against financial and security threats.

On his part, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Kwame Asuah Takyi Esq. thanked the Minister for the visit.

He assured the sector Minister that the men and woman in the Immigration Service will work with vigilance.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith