Residents of the Ashanti Region, including passport applicants and those in the printing business, have warmly welcomed the government’s decision to introduce a shift system at passport offices. The initiative is expected to ease congestion, improve efficiency, and create new opportunities for businesses that rely on passport-related services.
Many believe this is a long-overdue step in modernizing passport acquisition and enhancing public service delivery.
The move follows an announcement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, directing passport office staff to prepare for extended working hours. The new system, which will include day, night, and dawn shifts, aligns with the government’s broader plan to implement a 24-hour economy. The policy aims to increase productivity, create jobs, and ensure that essential services are available around the clock.
For years, passport applicants in the Ashanti Region and across Ghana have faced numerous challenges in obtaining travel documents. Long queues, slow processing times, and the burden of securing appointment slots have been persistent concerns. The introduction of a shift system has therefore been met with excitement, as it is seen as a solution that will ease pressure on applicants and staff alike.
“This is the best decision the government has made regarding passport acquisition,” said Yaw Mensah, a Kumasi resident who recently struggled to renew his passport. “Some of us are unable to visit the passport office during regular hours due to work commitments. With extended hours, we can now access services at more convenient times.”
Printing businesses that provide passport-related services, such as passport photos, photocopying, and document printing, have also expressed optimism about the new arrangement. Many business owners anticipate increased customer flow, which could boost revenue and expand economic activities in areas surrounding passport offices.
“This is great news for those of us in the printing business,” remarked Akosua Serwaa, who runs a printing shop near the passport office in Adum. “People applying for passports always need documents printed or photos taken. If the office runs 24 hours, it means more customers for us, especially during the evening and night shifts.”
Taxi and ride-hailing service drivers also foresee potential benefits. Many applicants travel from different parts of the region to access passport services, and extended working hours will likely increase transportation demand.
“Currently, passport applicants rush to the offices early in the morning, and by afternoon, there is a decline in passengers,” said Kwame Agyeman, a ride-hailing driver in Kumasi. “If people are visiting the passport office at different times of the day and night, it means more business for drivers like us.”
Beyond economic advantages, the shift system is expected to improve service delivery by reducing overcrowding at passport centers. Over the years, congestion at passport offices has been a major concern, with applicants often standing in long queues for hours. The new shift arrangement will allow for better spacing of appointments and quicker processing times.
Despite the enthusiasm, some individuals have raised concerns about implementation challenges. They believe that the success of the shift system will depend on proper resource allocation, security measures, and the commitment of passport office staff.
“While this is a fantastic idea, we need to ensure that the offices are fully equipped to function efficiently at night,” noted Emmanuel Darko, a public service analyst. “There should be adequate lighting, security, and staff rotation plans to maintain high service standards throughout the shifts.”
Some residents have also suggested that the government integrate more digital solutions into the passport application process.
“Even with a shift system, if the manual processes remain slow, we will still experience delays,” said Abena Ofori, a university lecturer in Kumasi. “The government should focus on making the entire process more digital to reduce in-person visits. That will make things even better.”
The government has assured the public that proper measures will be put in place to ensure the smooth implementation of the initiative. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the shift system is part of a broader effort to modernize passport services and enhance efficiency.
“The introduction of shift work at passport offices aligns with our commitment to providing better services to the public,” the statement read. “We recognize the concerns raised, and we are working closely with relevant agencies to address potential challenges before the full rollout.”
Additionally, authorities are considering recruiting additional staff to support the extended working hours. Training programs may also be introduced to ensure that employees are well-prepared for the transition.
For many residents, the shift system represents more than just an improvement in passport services—it symbolizes progress in public service delivery and economic development.
“A 24-hour economy is a step in the right direction,” said Michael Boateng, an entrepreneur in Kumasi. “If this works well, it could set the stage for other government offices to operate similarly, making life easier for citizens.”
While the full details of the rollout are yet to be disclosed, anticipation continues to grow, with residents eager to experience a more accessible and convenient passport application process. The government’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in public services is a welcomed change, and many hope it will serve as a model for other essential services across the country.
