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The Ghana Immigration Service has reported a significant increase in revenue, generating more than GH¢546 million within a year as reforms under Samuel Basintale Amadu begin to take effect.
Announced on Tuesday, March 24, the achievement reflects ongoing efforts to improve efficiency through digitalisation, enhanced systems, and stricter border management.
A key driver of the growth has been reforms in visa and permit processing, with the Service issuing 186,959 permits and visas—representing a 32.5% rise compared to the previous year. Officials credit investments in automation and digital infrastructure for faster processing times and improved transparency.
Operationally, the GIS also managed over 2.8 million passenger movements across air, land, and sea entry points without major incidents, supporting initiatives such as the “2025 December in Ghana” tourism campaign, which saw increased international arrivals.
Since his appointment in March 2025 by John Dramani Mahama, Amadu has led efforts to strengthen border security, modernise systems, and enhance intelligence-led operations. This has resulted in intensified enforcement activities, including seizures of smuggled goods, narcotics, and ammunition, as well as numerous arrests for immigration-related offences.
The Service has also expanded its intelligence and legal functions, working closely with partner agencies to secure convictions in cases involving illegal entry, fraud, and cybercrime. Measures to combat document fraud have been strengthened, with improved systems detecting more forged travel and identification documents.
On the institutional front, the GIS has prioritised training, equipping officers with skills in counter-terrorism, crisis management, and border security. Infrastructure upgrades in key locations such as Tema, Kumasi, and Tamale are also enhancing service delivery and working conditions.
Looking ahead, the Service is advancing initiatives like Project SECOBOR, a public-private partnership aimed at improving surveillance, logistics, and staff welfare, alongside proposals for a health insurance scheme and an endowment fund for personnel.
Source: citinews
